Thanksgiving — The Los Indios Police Department, along with other municipal departments and staff, is hosting the annual Senior Thanksgiving Dinner on Friday evening. Seen here is a photo from last year’s event. (Courtesy photo/LIPD)
By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the NEWS
LOS INDIOS, TX— This small river community is proving it has a big heart as organizers prepare to welcome senior residents for their Annual Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Feast. This tradition began in 2021 and continues to grow each year.
The event is scheduled for November 21, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Los Indios Community Center and organizers invite all residents ages 55 and older to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal and an evening of fellowship.
According to Police Chief Eddie Mendoza, the purpose behind the holiday dinner is both heartfelt and straightforward.
“The primary goal is to bring our seniors together. Many of our seniors can feel alone, especially during the holiday season. The feast creates a welcoming space where they can enjoy good food, conversation, and companionship,” Mendoza said.
The event has grown each year, with organizers expecting 50 to 75 senior residents to attend this year’s gathering. While no special accommodations or entertainment are planned, Mendoza said the focus is on providing seniors with a relaxing and meaningful experience.
“We are committed to providing a full-service, restaurant-style experience so our seniors can simply relax, enjoy their meal, and feel truly appreciated,” he said.
Planning for the feast begins weeks in advance and is coordinated by the Los Indios Police Department, City Hall, city leadership, and volunteers.
“The Police Department, City Hall, and our city leaders prepare by coordinating closely with local partners and volunteers to ensure every detail is handled with care,” Mendoza said.
The city and several contributors support this year’s dinner. Mendoza confirmed that Walmart San Benito is one of the event’s biggest sponsors, donating turkeys for the feast.
Commissioner Anay Mata also donated five additional turkeys. Volunteers, including police officers, city staff, and commissioners, will help with cooking, serving, and cleanup.
Seniors to enjoy each other’s company and reminisce about the good ole days. The Thanksgiving menu will include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, and dessert.
With delicious food and a warm atmosphere, the annual Thanksgiving feast continues to be a meaningful tradition for Los Indios seniors, said the chief. It shows the city’s appreciation for the older residents who are the heart of the community, he concluded.