Little Rock, Arkansas – As Thanksgiving draws near, families and friends across Central Arkansas are preparing to gather and celebrate the season of gratitude. But for some residents, recent hardships, including the fallout from the government shutdown, have made it more difficult to enjoy a warm holiday meal. For those seeking support, numerous local organizations are stepping up to ensure everyone has access to a free, hot Thanksgiving meal.
The City of Little Rock, along with surrounding communities, has a long-standing tradition of coming together to provide for those in need during the holidays. This year, several churches, community centers, and nonprofit organizations have opened their doors with scheduled meals for residents who might otherwise go without.
“Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on our blessings and help those who might be struggling,” said one community organizer. “It’s about making sure everyone in our community can sit down to a warm meal and feel included.”
In Little Rock, Canvas Community will host multiple meals, first on Monday, November 24, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, November 26, during the same hours, at 1111 W 7th Street. St. Mark Baptist Church is offering a midday meal on Tuesday, November 25, at 12:00 p.m., while Jericho Way serves residents on Wednesday, November 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. For Thanksgiving Day itself, Vine & Village, located at the Mosaic Church campus on 6221 Colonel Glenn Road, will provide meals from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Other options in Little Rock include Riverfront Pavilion downtown at 10:00 a.m., Mosaic Church from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Southwest Community Center on Baseline Road from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and the Little Rock Compassion Center serving a shorter window from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Nearby North Little Rock residents can attend Friendly Chapel Church of the Nazarene at 116 S. Pine Street, offering meals on Wednesday, November 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Meanwhile, in Benton, the First United Methodist Church at 200 N. Market Street will serve a free dine-in Thanksgiving meal from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with carry-out and delivery options for Saline County residents by signing up in advance.
Conway will also see multiple events, including the Conway Community Cafe meal at 111 St. Harrison Street on Thanksgiving Day at 2:00 p.m., and a Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Friday, November 28, in the Kroger parking lot at 101 Oak Street from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Pine Bluff residents can attend Neighbor to Neighbor at 1419 S. Pine Street on Tuesday, November 25, at noon.
In Hot Springs, LakePointe Church, Roanoke Baptist Church, and M. Langston Lodge #84 are all offering take-out or delivery meals on Thanksgiving morning from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., though reservations are required in advance. Interested individuals are encouraged to follow the instructions provided by each location to secure a meal.
Jacksonville residents can attend a Thanksgiving-themed free hot dog and hamburger event at 1 Galloway Circle on Tuesday, November 25, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Meanwhile, Russellville will host a free Thanksgiving meal at Old South Restaurant at 105 E. Harrell Drive on Thursday, November 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and the Russellville First United Methodist Church will provide carryout from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and dine-in from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Atkins residents can enjoy a free community Thanksgiving meal at the Atkins United Methodist Church at 306 N Church Street on Thursday, November 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The coordination of these meals reflects a community-wide effort to support neighbors, friends, and families who might be experiencing tough times this season. While some organizations require reservations or sign-ups, many others welcome walk-ins, making it easier for those in need to access a warm, nourishing meal.
“These meals are more than just food,” said a volunteer coordinator. “They’re about connection, kindness, and making sure no one feels alone on a day that’s meant for gathering and giving thanks. The effort from churches and community groups shows how much Central Arkansas cares about its residents.”
Residents interested in attending any of these events are encouraged to check the dates and times carefully, as some organizations provide multiple meals or require reservations for delivery and take-out. Those with information about additional Thanksgiving meals in Central Arkansas are invited to share details by emailing [email protected] so they can be added to the community resource list.
With the holiday season underway, Central Arkansas residents can take comfort in knowing that no one will have to go without a meal. Whether at a church, community center, or local organization, the community’s commitment ensures that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy Thanksgiving with warmth, nourishment, and a sense of belonging.
