As Christmas nears and the year draws to a close, there are still meaningful ways to support individuals and families facing food insecurity, financial hardship and homelessness across the Dallas area. Local nonprofits are continuing their holiday outreach and winter assistance efforts through the end of December — and residents can step in with time, food, gifts or financial support.
For those who want to volunteer or donate now through Dec. 31, here are several organizations and opportunities where contributions are needed and will have immediate impact.
Give Financial Support or Volunteer with The Salvation Army of North Texas
The Salvation Army’s holiday programs include food assistance, shelter support, and ongoing services to neighbors combating poverty, addiction and homelessness across the region. Community members can still donate online or in person, volunteer at Red Kettle locations, or support broader social services that continue through the end of the year.
Learn more and get involved: The Salvation Army of North Texas – Give With Joy & Volunteer Opportunities (cash donations, bell ringing, shelter and food support).
Support Food Security Through the North Texas Food Bank
The North Texas Food Bank distributes food to more than 400 partner agencies throughout the region, including food pantries and meal programs that serve families, seniors and children year‑round. Financial donations and volunteer hours help maintain food distribution efforts during the holidays and into January.
Find ways to give or volunteer: North Texas Food Bank – Donate or Volunteer (food distribution, pantry support and events).
Donate or Volunteer with Treasures of Hope
Treasures of Hope, part of the Dallas Leadership Foundation, provides holiday food boxes and turkeys to families experiencing food insecurity. While the main distribution event occurred earlier in December, the organization continues support through ongoing services and can still receive donations to fund food assistance for local families.
Support their work: Treasures of Hope – Food Assistance & Donate.
Volunteer or Donate to The Stewpot
The Stewpot in downtown Dallas serves meals daily throughout the year and offers additional pantry support for neighbors experiencing homelessness or hardship. Volunteers of all ages can help with food pantry operations, meal service and snack bag preparation — even after Christmas.
Sign up and learn more: The Stewpot – Volunteer Opportunities (meal service, pantry help, family‑friendly options).
Make Seasonal Donations or Volunteer at Local Pantries
Beyond larger nonprofits, smaller community groups and pantries also welcome help now through year‑end:
- White Rock Center of Hope — Provides food pantry services, clothing, and financial assistance; volunteers and donations help sustain support into the New Year.
Learn more: White Rock Center of Hope – Volunteer & Donate.
Additional Ways to Give
While some holiday‑specific events have already occurred, there are still ways to make an impact through the end of the year:
- Host or contribute to a toy or food drive: Many organizations — including local pantries and advocacy groups — continue to accept toys, non‑perishable food, gift cards and winter essentials for families with children.
- Organize a donation through your workplace or community group: Group drives often multiply impact and are welcome by both large food banks and smaller local charities.
- Give directly to local food pantries and holiday stores: Campus and community food distributions happen through partner agencies and often operate year‑round as needs continue.
Tips for Last‑Minute Giving
- Monetary donations often have the greatest impact because organizations can purchase food and supplies at scale.
- Call ahead for volunteer shifts — many sites fill up quickly in late December.
- Check volunteer age requirements and donation guidelines to ensure your contribution can be accepted and put to use immediately.
Whether you volunteer an hour, give a few meals worth of food, or make a financial contribution, there are still ways to ensure families, seniors and individuals in need feel support and compassion this holiday season and into the new year.
