Hundreds of volunteers are needed Nov. 23–to Nov. 25 to help serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal and welcome approximately 1,500 Washington, D.C., neighbors
Safeway and United Way of the National Capital Area (United Way NCA) announced that volunteer registration is open for the 27th Annual Safeway Feast of Sharing, presented by Events DC.
Hundreds of volunteers are needed Nov. 23 to Nov. 25 to help prepare and serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal and support approximately 1,500 Washington, D.C., neighbors at one of the region's largest community Thanksgiving celebrations.
The annual event will take place Wednesday, Nov. 25, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, bringing together community members, volunteers and local organizations for a day centered on food, fellowship and support.
For the first time, United Way NCA will lead volunteer recruitment, communications and on-site coordination for Safeway Feast of Sharing. Volunteer opportunities are available across three days and include meal preparation, guest services, dining room support as well as event setup and cleanup, and language interpretation.
“Feast of Sharing reflects what is possible when businesses, nonprofits and neighbors come together to care for their community,” said Dana Ward, Director of Community Affairs for Safeway, Mid-Atlantic. “Volunteers are at the heart of this tradition, and we are grateful to United Way NCA for helping us make the experience welcoming, organized and meaningful for everyone involved.”
“Community service and bringing people together are core to the United Way of the National Capital Area’s mission and programming. We are proud to help mobilize volunteers for an event that brings dignity, connection, and practical support to our neighbors during the holiday season,” said Sarah Parker, Vice President of Community Impact and Engagement for United Way NCA. “Whether someone can lend a few hours in the kitchen, greet guests or serve a meal, every volunteer has an important role in making the day possible.”
In addition to the holiday meal, Safeway Feast of Sharing will feature live entertainment and access to health and community services through a resource fair powered by the D.C. Department of Human Services. Safeway pharmacy teams will provide health services and Sit & Be Fit will lead a wellness activity before meal service.
Events DC returns as the event’s trusted venue partner, hosting the celebration at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
“Events DC is proud to host the 27th Annual Safeway Feast of Sharing, a celebration dedicated to the District's most valuable asset: our community,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “We look forward to welcoming residents for a day of gratitude and appreciation, while providing holiday meals and access to vital resources. It is our way of saying thank you and reaffirming our commitment to supporting our neighbors year-round.”
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer shifts are available Monday, Nov. 23, and Tuesday, Nov. 24, beginning as early as 8 a.m., as well as Wednesday, Nov. 25, beginning at 6 a.m. Opportunities include volunteer check-in, kitchen support, dining room setup and cleanup, guest greeting, dining room supervision, buffet and table service, resource fair support, certificate distribution, Sit & Be Fit assistance, Spanish and Mandarin interpretation.
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Volunteers under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who can sign the required liability agreement on their behalf. Kitchen and food preparation volunteers must be at least 18 years old. All volunteers must register individually, acknowledge the required liability agreement and arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled shift.
Volunteer Registration: Register through the United Way NCA Safeway Feast of Sharing volunteer registration page: Needs | United Way of the National Capital Area.
Event Details
Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2026
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW
Washington, DC 20001
Doors open at 9 a.m. The health and resource fair runs from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the dining hall opens at 10:45 a.m., and meal service is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the community.
Safeway Feast of Sharing is made possible through the support of community partners, including Events DC, Safeway Nourishing Neighbors, United Way NCA, Aramark, Metropolitan Baptist Church, Projection, Hi-Tech Electric, Digital Conventions and DC Central Kitchen.
