A traditional thanksgiving meal with turkey and stuffing. Photo by Marcus Quigmire via Wikimedia Commons

The San Diego Rescue Mission will host its annual Thanksgiving Community Outreach Meal Saturday, providing holiday food for San Diegans without a home or in unstable living conditions.

The event, running from 1 to 3 p.m., will feature “a traditional roast turkey dinner with all the holiday trimmings,” for low-income San Diegans.

“Thanksgiving is more than a meal; it’s a time to restore hope and community for those in need,” said Donnie Dee, president and CEO of the San Diego Rescue Mission. “At the San Diego Rescue Mission, we don’t just fill plates — we aim to fill hearts with dignity, compassion, and a renewed sense of purpose.”

The organization will also offer attendees haircuts and hot showers through its mobile shower trailers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rescue Mission.

“Our goal is to show each person who walks through our doors that they are seen, valued, and capable of moving toward a brighter future,” Dee said. “This day is about nourishing both body and soul. Every meal shared, every service provided is a step in helping people experiencing homelessness get off the streets and into a life of stability and hope.”

According to the rescue mission, medical services, pet care, prayer, giveaways, and bag storage will also be available for all guests. Free shuttle rides to and from the event are available from the city’s O and B safe camping sites in Balboa Park from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

While the nonprofit organization has the kitchen stocked with 2,552 pounds of food and 1,400 pie slices, volunteers and donations are needed to keep it running.

Additional information is available at sdrescue.org.

–City News Service