Struggling This Thanksgiving? Davenport Church Invites Everyone to a Free Holiday Meal

If you’re struggling this year, don’t have family nearby, or simply need somewhere warm and welcoming to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal, here is one local option that is completely free and open to anyone in the community.

P.U.N.C.H. (People Uniting Neighbors & Churches) will again serve a free Thanksgiving meal to anyone who needs a place to eat on the holiday — including people experiencing homelessness — at First Baptist Church in Davenport. The annual community dinner is part of the Hilltop churches’ long-running neighborhood outreach.

When and where

The 2025 P.U.N.C.H. Thanksgiving dinner is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 27, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (or until food runs out) at First Baptist Church, 1401 N. Perry St., Davenport. Guests may dine inside or pick up a drive-up/carryout meal.
Organizers publish a carryout phone line and a ride-request number each year. For the 2025 program, callers can request a carryout by calling (563) 323-2765 and request a ride at (563) 323-4435 (these are the numbers listed with local service directories and the P.U.N.C.H. listings).

Volunteers, donations and year-round programs

P.U.N.C.H. is a coalition of Hilltop churches that runs more than the Thanksgiving meal — Blessing Boxes stocked with hygiene and household items, a community garden, Trunk-or-Treat, and Juneteenth events are all part of its calendar. Donations and volunteer signups are typically accepted year-round at First Baptist (1401 N. Perry St.) and Third Missionary Baptist Church (222 W. 14th St.). Local partners such as United Way and neighborhood churches help publicize volunteer needs each fall. P.U.N.C.H.

Who’s behind it

P.U.N.C.H. (People Uniting Neighbors & Churches) brings area congregations together to provide hospitality and practical help in the Hilltop neighborhood. Churches and local nonprofits coordinate the meal and other outreach efforts so neighbors without family or transportation can still have a warm holiday.