Who’s Hungry for Seconds?!
MealsGiving was created to provide thousands across Cleveland with a warm, delicious meal just in time for Thanksgiving. Because kindness and community are something we all need now more than ever.
On November 25, 2025, let’s make sure EVERYONE eats!
How the Movement Began
Last year, restaurant Cordelia served as MealsGiving HQ, hosting dozens of in-person volunteers, including Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, Bernie Kosar, and Mayor Justin Bibb.
Who’s Idea Was This, Anyway?
MealsGiving is the brainchild of Emmy-award-winning host and Cleveland native Ricky Smith (@rickonia) and his nonprofit, RAKE.
What’s RAKE?
Short for Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere, RAKE (@rake_now) is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to improving the world one good deed at a time.
Who Receives Donated Meals?
In 2024, meal recipients included newly housed families, children enrolled in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD), area first responders, and military veterans.
Mayor Bibb Proclaims MealsGiving an Official Holiday
On behalf of the City of Cleveland, Mayor Justin M. Bibb issued a proclamation recognizing MealsGiving as an Official Holiday to occur each Tuesday before Thanksgiving, starting November 26, 2024.
Get Involved From Anywhere
Submit a MealsGiving Pledge form describing how you or your organization plan to provide hot meals to one or more recipients in your local community on November 25, 2025!
Whether you volunteer to deliver meals, pledge to buy breakfast for someone in need, send lunch to a frontline worker, or make dinner for a friend or family member, MealsGiving is about spreading love and kindness, one meal at a time.

