Thanksgiving represents more than just a holiday; it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by giving back to those in need. Volunteering uplifts those who receive help and enriches the lives of those who give, providing a deeper sense of connection and fulfillment during the holiday.
In Jersey City, there are numerous ways to embrace this spirit of giving—whether by serving meals, organizing donations, or simply offering a helping hand.
It’s important to remember that giving back goes beyond Thanksgiving. This is also a wonderful opportunity to discover which causes bring you the most joy and find ways to support them throughout the year!
Nonprofit Organizations to Support
The Flow Initiative – 321 Route 440 | Suite 3, #130
The Flow Initiative is a nonprofit organization working to eradicate period poverty and create a better world for women, girls, and all people who menstruate. The Flow Initiative offers a range of volunteer opportunities so you can support their mission in impactful and fulfilling ways. There are numerous ways to make a difference, from organizing period product drives to collecting and distributing essential menstrual supplies to underserved communities.
Volunteers can also assist in educational workshops on menstrual health and hygiene, helping to empower individuals with knowledge. Additionally, you can get involved in planning pop-up events that raise awareness and offer resources or participate in advocacy campaigns aimed at policy change to promote menstrual equity. Click here to learn more about their ways to get involved.
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Angela Cares – 512 Ocean Ave Unit 1
AngelaCARES, Inc. supports and empowers seniors, caregivers, and young people through advocacy, mentorship, and community involvement. Since its founding in 2011, AngelaCARES has made it its mission to help senior citizens live fulfilling lives, guide caregivers, and inspire youth to volunteer. Through case management, workshops, volunteer projects, and agency referrals, they work to uplift community members facing emergency situations and set clients on a path toward self-sufficiency and a better quality of life.
For those looking to give back, AngelaCARES offers various volunteer opportunities—whether for a single project, a short-term commitment, or a long-term engagement. Volunteers play a critical role in mentoring young people, advocating for seniors, and supporting caregivers. You can register to volunteer here.
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Family Promise of Hudson County – PO Box 3701, Jersey City
Family Promise is dedicated to helping families experiencing homelessness and low-income families gain sustainable independence through community-based support. By working with local communities to tackle the root causes of family homelessness, Family Promise provides a comprehensive approach: prevention services to keep families from reaching crisis, shelter and case management when homelessness occurs, and stabilization programs to support families after they secure housing.
There are many ways to volunteer this season—organize a supply drive, read stories to children, or assist with resume writing. You can learn more about their volunteering opportunities here if you want to get involved.
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York Street Project – 89 York Street
York Street Project’s programs equip nearly 400 women, children, and families each year with the tools to start their journey toward lasting self-sufficiency. They offer a safe and supportive environment where families can build a stable foundation for the future. Key initiatives include transitional housing for homeless women and children, an early childhood development center, and a specialized job readiness program.
They always need supplies; starting a fundraiser is a great way to help. Here’s a list of urgently needed items:
- Toiletries: toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash
- Cleaning Supplies: spray cleaners, paper towels, laundry detergent, dish detergent, sponges
- New Clothing: socks, underwear, undershirts, sweatpants, and sweatshirts for adults, children, and babies
- Baby Needs: unopened diapers and baby wipes
- Housewares: gently used pots/pans, dishes, silverware
- Linens: new towels and washcloths
You can also support them by sharing or purchasing from their Amazon wishlist.
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Jersey City Parks Coalition
The Jersey City Parks Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing and maintaining public parks across Jersey City. Working closely with local communities, they aim to transform parks into vibrant, green spaces that foster community engagement, environmental stewardship, and recreation for all residents. The coalition promotes sustainability and a greener urban landscape through various initiatives, including tree plantings, cleanups, community gardening, and educational programs.
You can get involved by contacting your local parks association group, participating in park beautification projects, joining cleanup events, helping with community gardens, and supporting special events and educational activities.
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Clothing and Pantry + Events to Support
Hope House Jersey City – 246 2nd St
Hope House is an emergency shelter for homeless women with children. The facility can accommodate up to 20 mothers and their children and provides short-term supervised residences. Services offered include three meals daily, assessment and planning, case management, housing support, education, food, and clothing assistance.
You can help by hosting a fundraiser to collect gently used clothing and canned food. Before organizing the fundraiser, please contact the shelter directly to find out what items they need the most.
St Lucy’s Homeless Shelter – 619 Grove St
St. Lucy’s Emergency Shelter offers year-round shelter for single adults in Jersey City and is currently seeking food donations, especially during Thanksgiving. Volunteers can contribute by donating non-perishable food items or by preparing meals. If you’re interested in gathering items to donate, you can view a list of the items they collect here.
Friendsgiving Back Food Drive Hosted by Sol Spirt Yoga Studio
Sol Spirit Yoga Studio is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive to support Essex and Hudson County communities. The Jersey City drop-off location is in Jersey City Heights, 523 Palisade Ave. Bring non-perishable essentials like canned proteins, grains, fruits, veggies, and more. Spread the word and make the Thanksgiving season brighter for all!
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Triangle Park Community Center Book Drive hosted by JC Heights Parents
JC Heights Parents is organizing a book drive to support the Triangle Park Community Center. They invite you to drop off gently used books to help stock their free library. Books for all ages are accepted. Collection boxes will be available at Griot Café and Busy Bee Organics in the Heights throughout November.
The 27th Annual Complimentary Thanksgiving Dinner
The 27th Annual Complimentary Thanksgiving Dinner in Jersey City will be held on November 28, 2024, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at Monique’s Techniques on Storms Avenue. Volunteers can help by serving meals, setting up, and assisting guests. This event brings the community together to enjoy a free meal on Thanksgiving, supporting residents who may not have access to a traditional holiday dinner.
Jersey City’s Turkey Day 5K
If you want to give back while staying active, consider signing up for the Jersey City Turkey Day 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run. This event will take place on Thanksgiving morning, November 28, 2024. The race starts at the iconic Colgate Clock near Essex Street and Hudson Street. Participants will enjoy a scenic route along the Jersey City waterfront, featuring views of landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. The Turkey Day 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run proceeds will support local charities and community programs, including various health, fitness, and wellness initiatives. To sign up, visit here.
How to Start Your Fundraiser or Give Back
If you’re unsure where to start, consider donating to an organization by using your skills to support their mission or enlisting friends and family to help with a fundraiser. For instance, a nonprofit might greatly benefit from your expertise if you have coding or graphic design skills. Always reach out to organizations to see how they could use your assistance.
This is also a wonderful opportunity to involve your kids and show them the value of philanthropy and giving back. If you enjoy baking, think about making Thanksgiving cupcakes to sell, with the proceeds going to a charity of your choice. There are countless ways to engage with the community. Get creative and see what ideas you and your friends or family can develop!
Author: Arati Patel
Arati is a professional immersed in the environmental and animal welfare field. In her free time, she enjoys walking and spending time with shelter dogs, exploring the outdoors, and always ready to find a new coffee shop. A born and raised Jersey City local, she considers herself a life-long learner who is ready to write and craft inspiring stories to share with everyone!
