Keith Lee is joining forces with Minnie’s Food Pantry as the Texas nonprofit prepares for its biggest Thanksgiving event to date.
According to the North Dallas Gazette, the 18th Annual Thanksgiving Giveaway will take place Saturday, November 22, at Red Tail Pavilion in Plano, where thousands of North Texas families are expected to receive full holiday meal boxes—including a turkey—during a year marked by heightened food insecurity.
More than 4,200 families have registered for the giveaway, according to the organization. Minnie's Food Pantry notes, however, that no further registrations are currently being accepted.
The demand follows months of financial strain caused by the recent federal government shutdown and a temporary pause in SNAP benefits.
While assistance programs have resumed, Minnie’s Food Pantry says many households are still working to stabilize.
Founder Dr. Cheryl “Action” Jackson said the event’s impact stretches far beyond turkey distribution. “Every box we prepare represents a community that shows up with courage, resilience, and hope,” she shared in a statement.
Jackson added that the annual giveaway reflects the power of volunteers and partners who “ensure that no family faces Thanksgiving—or any day—without access to nourishing food.”
This year’s volunteer effort is significant: 818 people contributed to event prep over the past two weeks. Major sponsors, including USAA, 7-Eleven, the Dallas Stars, Cawley Partners, H-E-B, Barcel USA, the City of Plano, Malin, and Cigna, also support the giveaway.
Several local partners will also be on-site. Emerald City Band is set to perform live throughout the morning, while Dillas Quesadillas and Dunkin’ Donuts will keep volunteers—and families waiting in line—stocked with food and drinks.
Flex Etc. provided additional storage space to house thousands of meal kits leading up to the event.
Lee’s involvement marks one of the most significant collaborations in the pantry’s history. The food critic and creator, known for spotlighting small businesses and community-focused initiatives, will participate in the distribution and help amplify the event online.
As part of his national “A Familee That SNAPS Back” challenge, Lee personally donated $12,000 worth of turkeys to support families experiencing food insecurity.
The giveaway schedule begins early, with volunteer check-in at 6:30 a.m., orientation at 7 a.m., and meal distribution running from 7:30 to 10 a.m.
Minnie’s Food Pantry expects a record turnout as the holiday season begins—and says Lee’s partnership will help bring even more visibility to families who rely on the annual event for support.