On November 27, 2025, thousands of volunteers across Los Angeles County came together to provide Thanksgiving meals to those in need. The annual initiative saw organizations like the Los Angeles Midnight Mission serve nearly 2,000 homeless and near-homeless individuals in the Skid Row area. This year, the Mission prepared a staggering 3,500 pounds of turkey, along with a variety of traditional side dishes, highlighting the community’s spirit of generosity and support.
The event, which took place on Sixth Street outside the Mission, featured an extensive menu that included 500 pounds of stuffing, 50 gallons of gravy, and 300 pounds of holiday dessert. According to Georgia Berkovich, the Mission’s chief communications officer, the meals were made possible by the dedication of volunteers and generous donations from the community.
Among the volunteers were notable figures such as actors Nia Long and Tom Morello, who joined in the effort to serve food. This year’s initiative reflects a growing awareness of food insecurity as many families continue to struggle with rising grocery prices and cuts to federal food benefits.
Community support extended beyond Skid Row. On November 26, Union Station Homeless Services provided on-site and to-go meals in Pasadena, serving a traditional Thanksgiving spread. The event attracted volunteers from various backgrounds, including local politicians and actors like Adina Porter. Porter, who represented Feeding America, expressed gratitude for organizations addressing hunger, particularly after experiencing personal loss due to a fire earlier in the year.
The contributions did not stop there. Former Van Halen singer David Lee Roth made significant donations to assist the Union Station event, alongside corporate contributions from the Green Foundation and Bigo Live, totaling over $40,000. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of community and the need to support vulnerable populations.
In Torrance, the Coast Christian Fellowship Church celebrated its 27th annual Thanksgiving dinner, preparing to serve approximately 500 meals. Volunteers within the church not only provided a warm meal but also collected non-perishable food and clothing items for distribution to local families in need. The festive atmosphere was enhanced with decorations and the spirit of togetherness.
Additionally, the Laugh Factory in Hollywood continued its longstanding tradition, expecting over 2,000 attendees for its free Thanksgiving feast. This annual event, which began in 1979, has evolved from serving a handful of displaced comedians to becoming a significant gathering for the community.
As the holiday season approaches, these acts of kindness and generosity highlight the ongoing challenges faced by many in Los Angeles County. The collaborative efforts from volunteers and local organizations not only provided meals but also fostered a sense of community, reminding everyone of the importance of compassion and support during these trying times.
The success of these events serves as a vivid reminder that, even in difficult circumstances, the spirit of giving remains strong. Local officials, including Rep. Laura Friedman, expressed gratitude for the volunteers and staff involved, acknowledging their essential role in making such initiatives possible.
