Dirk Nowitzki at a former food event.

The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation is preparing to provide Thanksgiving meals to up to 1,000 families on Thursday, Nov. 9, at the Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center.

With the holiday season swiftly approaching, the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation, in partnership with the Dallas Tennis Association, will host a drive-through event for local families. Local law enforcement officers and firefighters will volunteer to distribute meals. The event will be from 9- 11 a.m.

“My family and I are happy that our foundation is able to assist our community at such an important time of year,” Nowitzki said. “As we approach the holidays and the weather gets colder, we want to give back to North Texas and help families in need.”

The Dallas Tennis and Education Academy (DTEA) provides free and low-cost tennis and education to under-resourced children and is headquartered at Kiest Tennis Center. The Nowitzki Excellence Team is a group of 24 students who excel in academics and tennis. Before the meal drive-through, students will assist in packing hundreds of boxes.

“Giving back to the community is a core value of DTEA – so we are thrilled to be participating in the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Fall Food Drive,” director of the DTEA, Bert Cole, said.

Each meal serves 4-6 people and consists of a turkey, a variety of sides, dessert, drinks, giveaways and more. A case of drinking water, a can opener, plastic utensils and containers will also be included. Warm blankets will also be distributed.

In addition, 100 meals will also be delivered to families and senior citizens near the Kiest Park neighborhoods. These areas include Cedar Crest, Oak Cliff, Pleasant Grove and Southern Dallas.

This event is open to the public and pre-registration is not required. The food boxes are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.