SAN ANTONIO – The Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner is hosting its 38th annual dinner to feed 25,000 of elderly, homeless, and those who need a warm meal on Thanksgiving Day.
The dinner was started by San Antonio restaurateur and businessman, Raul Jimenez, and his wife, Mary.
They wanted to share a meal on Thanksgiving with those who did not have anyone to celebrate the holiday with.
It started with about 100 people in attendance and has transformed into a dinner that serves more than 25,000.
"It really brings a lot of joy," said Patricia Jimenez, dinner coordinator and family member. "This is not just a traditional Thanksgiving meal. It's a feast of the heart. It feeds the soul."
How much food needs to be prepared to feed 25,000 people?
Turkey 9,400 lbs.
Stuffing 6,250 lbs.
Green Beans 6,250 lbs.
Gravy 650 lbs.
Yams 4,688 lbs.
Cranberry Sauce 4,688 lbs.
Bread 25,000 dinner rolls
Pumpkin Pies 3,000 pies
Want to help?
If you are interested in donating to make this meal possible each year, you can visit their website.
Just a $5 donation will feed two people!
When and where is the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner?
The dinner will be held on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 23, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
Doors open at 9 a.m.
There will be a worship service at 10 a.m.
Food service begins at 10:30 a.m. and will go through 4:30 p.m.