Holiday Break Support: Community Resources for Families

The holiday season is a time for connection, warmth, and care, but it can also bring added stress for many families. Whether you’re looking for help with meals, warm clothing, or community support, we’ve gathered a list of local resources available throughout the holiday break. Below are trusted Detroit-area programs offering free meals, coat giveaways, and support services for families.

Holiday Meal Assistance & Soup Kitchens

1. Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) Provides daily hot meals, emergency shelter, and basic-needs support for families and individuals. DRMM also operates as a primary warming center during extreme cold.

Status: Services available 24/7 throughout the holiday season.

2. Capuchin Soup Kitchen Offers hot meals, an emergency food pantry, and clothing assistance.

Holiday Hours: Special meals will be served on Christmas Day (Dec. 25) and New Year’s Day (Jan. 1).

Locations: * Meldrum Site: 1264 Meldrum St. (Brunch served 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM)

Conner Site: 4390 Conner St. (Breakfast 8:30 AM; Lunch 11:00 AM)

3. Forgotten Harvest Mobile Pantries Distributes fresh food at partner sites across Metro Detroit via mobile truck routes.

Pro-Tip: Schedules can change due to winter weather. Check their "Find Food" map at forgottenharvest.org before heading out.

4. Gleaners Community Food Bank Gleaners hosts food distribution sites across Wayne County, offering pantry boxes, fresh produce, and kid-friendly staples.

Update: Use pantrynet.org to find the site closest to your neighborhood and confirm holiday hours.

Coat Giveaways & Winter Clothing Support

1. Salvation Army "Coats for Kids" Distributes brand-new coats, hats, and gloves for children and families throughout the cold-weather season. Contact your local Salvation Army Corps center for distribution dates.

2. Local Community Centers & Churches Many neighborhood centers host ongoing coat drives and mitten trees. Active local sites for December 2025 include:

Franklin Wright Settlements: Often hosts winter distribution events at their Charlevoix Street location.

Matrix Human Services: Provides family support through their Matrix Center on E. McNichols.

The Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO): Offers "Holiday Elf" programs and emergency support for those experiencing housing instability.

Additional Community Support

Holiday Assistance & Utilities

Wayne Metro Community Action Agency: Offers the "Winter Crisis Program" to help families with utility shut-off notices or emergency fuel needs. Call their Connect Center at (313) 388-9799.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan: Provides a comprehensive "Holiday Giving Guide" and financial stability resources.

Health & Emotional Support

Michigan 2-1-1: A 24/7 one-stop shop. Call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211 to find the nearest open warming center, emergency food, or mental health counselor.

DPSCD Health Hubs: For families with school-age children, select "Health Hubs" (including Central, Denby, and Western High Schools) remain open on specific days during the break to provide basic needs, shelf-stable food, and mental health referrals.

Detroit Parent Network: Offers parent support groups and family resource navigation.

You’re Not Alone This Season

Covenant Schools is here for you, during the holiday season and all year long. If you need additional support or help connecting to these resources, please reach out to our team. We’re committed to supporting your health, your family’s well-being, and our community’s strength.

Wishing you a safe, warm, and peaceful holiday break.