Thanksgiving is just around the corner, falling on November 27th, but students and families in Shreveport and surrounding areas are facing increased food insecurity. Fortunately, Shreveport has a robust network of organizations stepping up to provide groceries, holiday meals, and support, ensuring that no one goes hungry during this season of gratitude.

Louisiana State University Shreveport is a good place to start. The on-campus food pantry [3], open to all enrolled students, has a mission to reduce food insecurity by providing nutritious food and resources to LSUS students, enabling them to focus on education, family, work, and personal growth. They are open on Mon & Tues 11 am - 2 pm and Wed & Thurs 1 pm - 4 pm, located on the 2nd floor of the University Center Office. Just bring your student ID and fill out a short waiver if it's your first time using LSUS Pilots Pantry, and you can get up to 100lbs of food a month.

The Cavalier Care Center at Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) [4] is directed by Sandra Roberson. It began as a food pantry in 2018 and evolved into a comprehensive resource hub. This center provides a range of services, including a food pantry, career closet, laptop loan program, emergency grant fund, and assistance with applying for programs such as SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and affordable housing. So, if you need groceries to get by, they offer it, with Roberson saying it's a "hand-up, not a handout," a place where people can receive help regardless of their situation.

Martha's Market Food Pantry [5] and Learning Center is a client-choice pantry, allowing individuals to make their own decisions about the services or products they need. They are open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Just bring photo ID, proof of income, and residency verification. Although the food pantry isn't the only service they offer, through the Learning Center, they offer cooking demonstrations, nutrition education, and life skills classes that help individuals and families make the most of the resources they receive.

The Noel Memorial United Methodist Church Food Pantry [6] remembers that people aren't the only ones who need to eat. They have been offering pet food options for years and continue this tradition in 2025. Although most pantries don't have this resource, the Noel Pantry sees cats and dogs as just another part of the family, so owners can stop by and get what they need for themselves and their four-legged friends. They are open Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., and you can always call their number: (318-424-0434) ahead if you have a specific need. 

In Shreveport, Thanksgiving isn't just a meal; it's a community effort to ensure everyone has a seat at the table. If you want to explore other resources, go to foodbanknla.org or findhelp.org to see a comprehensive list of food pantries in your area. Donating or volunteering is a great way to show support, especially as needs increase around this holiday season.