A Decade of Giving: Mission Housing’s 10th Annual Turkey Distribution at Valencia Gardens

It was a meaningful milestone for Mission Housing Development Corporation as we hosted the 10th annual Thanksgiving turkey distribution at Valencia Gardens, one of San Francisco’s largest affordable housing communities. What started ten years ago as a simple gesture of support has grown into a cherished community tradition that now provides holiday essentials to hundreds of residents.

This year, Mission Housing distributed more than 100 turkeys and Thanksgiving grocery bags, ensuring over 700 residents can enjoy a complete holiday meal at home. With food costs continuing to climb, many families face difficult choices during the holiday season. This event helps ease that burden. For some, it means being able to celebrate without worry. For others, it means sharing a holiday meal surrounded by family and community; something that might not have been possible otherwise. 

“You can’t just build a building. You have to be a part of the community. People have needs that are beyond just living. We want them to be successful. Given all of the food insecurity going on right now, people are very worried about being able to provide for their families for the holidays,” said Mission Housing’s Senior Asset Manager Paul Leone, one of the organization’s volunteers for the event.  

Throughout the afternoon, residents picked up food, spent time connecting with staff and neighbors, and shared a sense of celebration and care. The atmosphere was warm, joyful, and rooted in dignity; a reminder that support can be both simple and deeply meaningful. As Mission Housing Deputy Executive Director Marcia Contreras shared in interviews, the distribution represents more than groceries; it symbolizes stability, compassion, and the power of community.  “[Valencia Gardens] is what I call a mini city. Today creates a sense of community having folks come through and say hello to each other. They’re getting to spend time and meet neighbors who they may not always get to. And now, all our residents here can create a Thanksgiving dinner for their family because of this,” said Contreras 

Salina Wong-Keung has called Valencia Gardens home since the day of its ribbon cutting.  

“I feel really happy because I don’t have a ton of money. Everyone is so happy to be able to come here and get not just a turkey, but groceries. Everyone is talking about how amazing it is to have resources like this,” she said.  

“Today is about our staff being a part of our mission. We come and serve our community,” Contreras said. “This is what being involved in and seeing our community really means. We do not do this alone.” 

Moments like this reflect Mission Housing’s larger commitment to serving residents beyond housing alone. Providing food, creating access to resources, and building opportunities to connect are central to our work and essential to fostering thriving, resilient communities. 

As we step into the holiday season, we are grateful — for our residents, for those who helped make this event possible, and for everyone who continues to believe in the importance of community-centered housing and care. After ten years, this tradition remains one of our most heartfelt reminders that when we support one another, everyone has a place at the table. 

This year’s distribution is made possible by: A. Philip Randolph Institute San Francisco (APRI), C.H.A.R.M. SF Committee, San Francisco Human Services Agency (HSA), San Francisco Housing Development Corporation (SFHDC)