Turning Hunger into Hope
As Thanksgiving approaches, the spirit of gratitude and giving fills New York — and Catholic Charities of New York is inviting you to share that spirit with neighbors in need. Through our 2025 Thanksgiving Fund Drive, and with the help of beloved chef and longtime friend Lidia Bastianich , we’re ensuring that families across the city can gather around tables filled with food, comfort, and hope.
From Refugee to Renowned Chef: Lidia’s Journey of Hope
Lidia’s connection to Catholic Charities runs deep. She arrived in the United States as an 11-year-old refugee after spending two years in a displaced persons camp.
“I came as a refugee to the United States when I was 11 years old,” she recalls. “Before that, I spent two years in a refugee camp, where food was a daily concern. Catholic Charities brought us here, found us a home, and helped us begin again. That first Thanksgiving in America – we finally felt safe.”
Today, Lidia continues to share that spirit of gratitude and generosity by supporting Catholic Charities’ work to feed our neighbors in need. As part of our 2025 Thanksgiving Fund Drive, she’s even shared a few of her favorite seasonal recipes — simple, comforting dishes that bring people together around the table.
Feeding Our Neighbors with Compassion
Across the city, thousands of families are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of food and basic necessities. With fewer resources available and more households facing hardship, the need for support is greater than ever.
“Our goal is simple,” shares Lakisha Morris, Director of Food and Housing Stability for Catholic Charities Community Services. “We make sure that our neighbors who need food have access to it. They should not have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.” But for many across our city, that worry is very real. And for us, doing nothing is not an option.
Through the 2025 Thanksgiving Fund Drive, Catholic Charities provides turkeys, pantry staples, and other critical care to families across the Archdiocese — turning hunger into hope.
Give Now and Receive Chef Lidia’s Recipes
Together, we can make this Thanksgiving season one of comfort, connection, and gratitude for thousands of New Yorkers.
As you prepare your own Thanksgiving table — and perhaps try one of Chef Lidia’s special recipes — please take a moment to remember our neighbors in need.
