Thanksgiving in Harlem 2024: Bigger, Better, and More Impactful Than Ever!
As autumn settles in, we’re thrilled to announce that preparations for Thanksgiving in Harlem 2024 are well underway! What began as a small family project with a few snack bags has become a cherished tradition, bringing neighbors, volunteers, and supporters together to create a day filled with gratitude, connection, and joy. Last year’s event on 125th Street was our most remarkable yet, with over 30 amazing volunteers coming together to make Thanksgiving morning unforgettable for everyone who joined us.
This year, we’re building on that incredible momentum with exciting updates, new partnerships, and expanded outreach to make an even more significant impact on Harlem and beyond.
We’re thrilled to expand our outreach this year, continuing our partnership with NYCHA while reaching more families in the Bronx. Thanks to our incredible volunteer, Gwen, extra donations will be delivered to communities that need them most, spreading even more Thanksgiving cheer to new neighborhoods. The Bagel & Coffee Table is making a much-anticipated return! Sponsored by Jefferson Valley Bagels and an anonymous coffee donor, this station was a favorite last year, warming hands and hearts with fresh coffee and bagels. This year, we’re adding a sweet touch: Halloween candy donated by local kids, bringing an extra layer of joy to the morning. After its overwhelming success, the “Meet + Art Table” is also returning. This space allows kids and adults to bond, laugh, and express their creativity. It reminds us of the simple yet profound joy of connecting.
We’re incredibly excited to welcome three Girl Scout and Brownie troops to this year’s event. Troop 50423 is collecting reusable grocery bags to help families carry donations home, Troop 50387 is assembling care packages for the Bagel & Coffee Table, and Troop 50203 will be handing out special treats on Thanksgiving morning. It’s heartwarming to see these young girls stepping up to support their community while learning about the power of giving back.
Thanksgiving in Harlem: A Year-Round Initiative
Thanksgiving in Harlem has officially become more than a single-day event. This year, we launched a year-round giving initiative, bringing donations and support to borough communities long after the holiday ends. One notable effort was our emergency relief drive for the Western North Carolina flood victims, where volunteers quickly mobilized to provide essential items to those in need. This expansion is a testament to the growing mission of service and togetherness that defines Thanksgiving in Harlem.
Last year, the event also created a beautiful international connection. Two volunteer families met on 125th Street and later reunited in South Africa, proving that the bonds formed through acts of service can transcend borders and build lasting relationships. Another milestone this year is our first-ever grant from the Making a Difference Foundation (CompHealth, Norwalk, CT). This generous support will help us grow our mission, reach even more people, and make a more profound impact in the communities we serve.
Looking Ahead
Preparing for Thanksgiving, we’re also gearing up for our Asheville Christmas Drive, an initiative focused on providing toys and essentials for families in Asheville, particularly those still recovering from the recent floods. The drive will kick off after Thanksgiving, and we’ll share ways you can get involved in bringing holiday cheer to those in need.
How You Can Help
There are many ways to get involved with Thanksgiving in Harlem this year. Whether you donate much-needed items, volunteer your time, or spread the word, every contribution makes a difference. For more details, contact us on Instagram at @thanksgivinginharlem or at thanksgivinginharlem@gmail.com.We’re also excited to announce the launch of our new website, which will give you direct access to event updates, donation information, and more ways to participate.
We’re Making a Difference
Thanksgiving in Harlem has grown into something extraordinary—a day that embodies connection, kindness, and community. Every act of generosity, no matter how small, ripples through our neighborhoods, strengthening bonds and uplifting lives. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Let’s make Thanksgiving 2024 on 125th Street our most meaningful and impactful year as we come together to spread warmth, gratitude, and the power of giving.
