Food Bank of Delaware kicks off Thanksgiving food drive
October 13, 2025
With Thanksgiving just weeks away, the Food Bank of Delaware is calling on the community to help ensure every Delaware family has a holiday meal to enjoy.
The organization today announced the official launch of its annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, which runs through Friday, November 15. Items delivered after that date will be distributed through the remainder of the holiday season.
As the cost of living continues to rise, more Delawareans are turning to the Food Bank of Delaware and its network of community food pantries for help putting food on the table. This year, the Food Bank anticipates distributing thousands of turkeys and holiday food to neighbors in need.
“Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness, but for too many of our neighbors, it can be a stressful reminder of the challenges they face,” said Cathy Kanefsky, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Delaware. “With the community’s support, we can make sure every family across Delaware has a meal to share and memories to make.”
The Food Bank of Delaware is seeking donations of both nonperishable holiday foods and financial contributions. Most-needed items include:
- Canned vegetables and fruits
- Canned gravy and cranberry sauce
- Instant mashed potatoes and stuffing mix
- Shelf-stable milk
- Canned meats and soups
- Cornbread and biscuit mix
- Dessert mix
- Frozen turkeys (must be dropped off to Newark or Milford warehouses)
Food donations can be dropped off at the Food Bank’s facilities in Newark (222 Lake Drive) and Milford (102 Delaware Veterans Blvd.), Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Businesses, schools, faith-based groups, civic organizations and others are encouraged to organize food drives to support the effort.
Financial gifts are also vital — every $1 donated helps provide three meals to neighbors in need. Donations can be made securely online at www.fbd.org.
“Our community shows up every year to make sure no Delawarean is forgotten during the holidays,” said Kanefsky. “It’s that spirit of generosity and compassion that truly embodies what Thanksgiving is all about.”
For more information on how to get involved or host a food drive, visit www.fbd.org/food-drives or contact Jessi Dominguez, Special Events Manager, at jdominguez@fbd.org.
