Non-perishable food and personal care items are available to local Veterans in need at no cost.
Third Tuesday of Every Month
Noon – 3:00 p.m.
Helping Heroes Food Pantry 1200 Market Street Wheeling, WV 26003 (To the right of the McLure Hotel)
Call in advance to register: 304.232.0114
Veteran status will be verified. There is no financial qualification, any Veteran in need is welcomed.
Food Donation Guidelines
Contributions of food products are greatly appreciated and must meet strict criteria for the safety of our Veterans and their families. Our clients struggle with maintaining housing stability, and therefore are at higher risk for food borne illnesses. Food safety is paramount, and these guidelines are designed to protect our clients and our staff while allowing food products to be donated to Helping Heroes. Our goal is to provide clear and uniform guidelines on accepting food donations.
Canned & Packaged Items All items must be in their original, undamaged packaging. Dented cans, unlabeled items, open packaging, or broken boxes will not be accepted. The expiration date of these items must be at least seven days from the date of the donation.
Fresh Produce, Meats, & Frozen Items All items must have been kept under constant refrigeration or frozen, otherwise they cannot be accepted. Produce and fresh items must have an expiration date of at least five days from time of donation. If the items donated are home grown, the pick date must be provided.
Baked Goods Commercially packaged baked goods items must be in their original, undamaged packaging. The expiration date of these items must be at least two days from the date of the donation. Homemade baked goods are not accepted.
Prepared Foods Homemade prepared foods such as cooked meals, prepared salads, casseroles, starches, cooked vegetables, and similar items are not accepted.
Food Donation FAQ’s
1. What types of food donations does Helping Heroes accept? We gratefully accept commercially packaged, non-perishable food donations in original, undamaged packaging before their expiration date. We also accept unexpired fresh or frozen grocery items. We recommend that you always call ahead to see what can be used by our current clients.
2. Why doesn’t Helping Heroes accept homemade foods? We must be able to document compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regarding safe food handling and preparation, ensuring that all foods provided to our clients are prepared in strictly monitored, sanitary conditions.
3. What happens to my donation? We utilize food donations to directly benefit our clients living in emergency housing, transitional housing, or in the community as they establish permanent housing. We may also use food donations for agency activities, fundraisers, or events. Donated food items which we are unable to use will be directed to other local, non-profit agencies working to serve the homeless population.
4. Will Helping Heroes pick up my donation? It is most beneficial for donors to bring items to our office. However, pick up may be possible depending on factors such as quantity, location, and staff availability.
5. Can I host a food drive to benefit Helping Heroes? Yes! As long as all foods adhere to the above guidelines.
6. Can I donate items other than food? Yes! We accept NEW, UNOPENED toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, body lotion, toothpaste and toothbrushes, etc. to distribute to clients in need.
