Local Partners Unite to Fight Hunger Amidst Economic Uncertainty

Dallas, TX – November 14, 2025 – In a display of community solidarity, the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), the University of North Texas at Dallas (UNTD), Tom Thumb/Albertsons, and UNIQLO are joining forces to provide Thanksgiving meals and winter essentials to 500 local families. The initiative comes at a crucial time, with ongoing economic uncertainties and the potential for disruptions to federal food assistance programs adding strain to already vulnerable households.

This Saturday, volunteers will distribute complete Thanksgiving meal kits, including turkeys and a variety of side dishes, alongside warm HEATTECH thermal wear donated by UNIQLO. The event is designed to provide immediate relief and a sense of hope for families facing hardship.

"We're seeing increased demand for our services across all 13 counties we serve," explained a representative from the North Texas Food Bank. “Rising costs of living, coupled with potential changes to federal programs, are creating a perfect storm for families struggling to make ends meet. This event is just one part of our broader effort to address food insecurity in North Texas."

A Critical Time for Food Assistance

The timing of this collaborative effort is particularly significant. While no widespread government shutdown is currently in effect, the possibility of future disruptions to federal funding looms, impacting programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Historically, government shutdowns have caused delays in benefit disbursement and created anxieties for recipients, often leading to increased demand at local food banks.

“Even the threat of disruptions can create a ripple effect,” noted a local social services advocate. “Families begin to worry about how they’ll afford groceries, and they often try to access assistance earlier than they normally would, putting a strain on resources.”

According to Feeding America's most recent data, approximately 13-15% of Dallas County residents experience food insecurity – meaning they lack consistent access to enough nutritious food for an active, healthy life. This translates to hundreds of thousands of individuals, including a disproportionate number of children, who rely on food banks, pantries, and other charitable organizations.

Beyond Charity: A Commitment to Community

This Thanksgiving distribution is not simply a one-time act of charity; it reflects a growing trend of corporate social responsibility and a commitment to long-term community impact. Tom Thumb/Albertsons, a long-standing pillar of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has a demonstrated history of supporting local initiatives, including significant donations to food banks and schools. Their involvement goes beyond financial contributions, with employees regularly volunteering their time and resources.

“We believe it's our responsibility to give back to the communities we serve,” stated a representative from Albertsons Companies. “Addressing food insecurity is a critical part of that commitment, and we're proud to partner with organizations like the NTFB to make a difference.”

UNIQLO’s contribution of HEATTECH thermal wear underscores a similar commitment. The company’s sustainability reports highlight a focus on social contribution and ethical production. Donating warm clothing during the colder months aligns with their commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and providing practical assistance.

“We recognized a need for warmth and comfort, especially for families facing hardship,” explained a representative from UNIQLO. “HEATTECH is designed to provide essential warmth, and we’re pleased to be able to contribute to this important initiative.”

UNT Dallas: Bridging the Gap Between University and Community

The University of North Texas at Dallas (UNTD) plays a critical role in the partnership, providing logistical support, volunteer recruitment, and a central distribution point. UNTD’s commitment extends beyond this event, with a broader focus on community engagement and service learning.

“We see this as an opportunity to bridge the gap between the university and the community,” said a UNTD representative. “Our students and faculty are eager to contribute their time and expertise to address critical needs in the area.”

Looking Ahead: Addressing Systemic Issues

While this Thanksgiving distribution provides immediate relief, advocates emphasize the need to address the underlying systemic issues that contribute to food insecurity. This includes increasing access to affordable housing, raising the minimum wage, and investing in job training programs.

“One-time events are important, but they’re not enough,” explained a local social worker. “We need to address the root causes of poverty and create pathways to economic opportunity for all.”

The collaborative effort between the NTFB, UNTD, Tom Thumb/Albertsons, and UNIQLO serves as a powerful example of how partnerships can mobilize resources and address critical needs. As economic uncertainties continue to loom, such collaborations will be essential in ensuring that no one in North Texas goes hungry.

To learn more about the North Texas Food Bank and how you can help, visit https://www.ntfb.org/.