Thanksgiving

5 ways to help fight food insecurity in Cambridge and Somerville right now

Volunteer at a drop-in program, drop off food at community fridges, or deliver Thanksgiving meals to seniors.

Young volunteers packed a box on the assembly line at Food For Free in Somerville. (David L Ryan/Globe Staff)

November 20, 2025

1 minute to read

Even after SNAP benefits were restored following the end of the 43-day shutdown, many local residents still face food insecurity.

As Thanksgiving approaches, the need for community support has become even more visible. Local food pantries and mutual aid organizations are working to ensure residents in Cambridge and Somerville can celebrate the holiday, or simply find their next nourishing meal.

To make it easier for people who want to help, Boston.com has gathered a list of practical ways to support local organizations and mutual aid groups working to reduce hunger.

5 ways to help fight food insecurity in Cambridge and Somerville right now

Distribute meals for Thanksgiving at the Margaret Fuller House. Each year, the community hub and food pantry holds its Turkey Drive to help hundreds of families enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. Volunteers can help with food distribution, serving drinks and snacks, and helping lead activities for meal recipients of all ages. Sign up to volunteer here.

Donate grocery items to the East End House’s community Instacart. Order online and have food delivered directly to the pantry.

Drop off food to one of Somerville’s three community fridges, located at 35 Prospect St., 275 Broadway (Grant Street side), and 33 St. Clement Rd.

Volunteer at the Friday Café, a weekly daytime drop-in program at First Church in Cambridge, where homeless and housed adults can gather for a meal, to rest, or socialize. Volunteers can sign up for kitchen shifts, meal service, and more here.

Deliver Thanksgiving meals to homebound seniors. Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services is seeking approximately 15 teams (a runner and driver) to deliver Meals on Wheels on Thanksgiving morning from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.