There will be no Thanksgiving dinner served by Garza-owned McDonald’s and St. Felix Pantry in 2023, the organizations announced Thursday.

The 30-plus-year tradition at the McDonald’s location on NM 528 will take a pause this year due to the rotation of Felician sisters at the St. Felix Pantry, which takes place every few years.

“We understand how disappointing this news may be for some, but we are intent on serving the community in other ways, which includes supporting St. Felix Pantry during
this time of need around the holiday season,” said local McDonald’s owner/operator, Clemy Garza. “We look forward to working together with St. Felix Pantry to bring back
the beloved Thanksgiving Dinner next year, bigger and better than ever.”

That includes a $5,000 donation the Garzas will make to the pantry for food donations, which support hundreds of families.

“We appreciate the understanding and support of our community during this time,” said Sister Mary Angela Parkins, executive director of St. Felix Pantry. “As the pantry
goes through the rotation of Felician Sisters, the mission will always remain the same of feeding those in need in the Rio Rancho and Sandoval County communities.”

Additionally, McDonald’s will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thanksgiving Day.

St. Felix Pantry will be closed on Thanksgiving Day but will reopen from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Nov. 24.

The pantry is also still in need of donated food items before the Thanksgiving holiday, which can be dropped off at 4020 Barbara Loop Road SE in Rio Rancho.

For more information or to make a food or monetary donation, contact the St. Felix at 505-891-8075 or visit stfelixpantry.org.