As the holiday season approaches, the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission (SBRM) is launching its annual Turkey Drive and preparing to host a Thanksgiving Feast for those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.

The Turkey Drive, which continues through the end of the year, aims to collect turkeys and holiday meal essentials to help serve hundreds of men, women and children in need.

The Santa Barbara Rescue Mission said it gratefully accepts turkeys, canned goods, and monetary donations to ensure every guest receives a hearty, festive meal.

Donations may be dropped off, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 535 E. Yanonali St.
 
“Each Thanksgiving, SBRM welcomes community members to a traditional holiday dinner filled with good food, festive décor and fellowship,” organizers said.

This year’s Thanksgiving Feast will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, in the Rescue Mission’s dining hall, 535 E. Yanonali St., where guests will enjoy a restaurant-style meal served by community volunteers.

“The Thanksgiving celebration at the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission is a beautiful reminder of the power of gratitude and generosity,” said Rolf Geyling, president of the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission. “Through our Turkey Drive, our community helps make it possible to extend that spirit throughout the holiday season.”

Santa Barbara Rescue Mission is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has served the county and city of Santa Barbara for some 60 years, providing emergency services and long-term recovery for the homeless and addicted. The Rescue Mission receives no government funding.