Clear out your closet and spread the warmth this winter! Donating gently used clothes not only frees up space but also helps those in need stay cozy during the cold months.

Warm Up the New Year With Generosity

As the holiday lights come down and we settle into the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can make a difference in our community. Many of us spend January cleaning out closets, organizing spaces, and letting go of things we no longer need. Instead of discarding those items, why not give them a second life and help someone in need?

In Wheeling, several incredible organizations work tirelessly to support our neighbors. By donating your gently used or new items, you can bring warmth, comfort, and hope to those who need it most. Here’s how you can get involved:

Youth Services System – Sophie Moses Free Store

Imagine walking into a space where everyone is treated with dignity and care, and shelves are stocked with essentials for those who need them most. The YSS Sophie Moses Free Store—a community gem providing clothing, shoes, blankets, baby items, and more to families in need.

  • Where to Donate: Hazel Atlas Building, 87 15th St., Wheeling, WV
  • Drop-Off Times: Wednesdays, 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM (2-bag limit, 13-gallon size bags)
  • How to Help: Fill out a simple donation form and bring it with your items. Forms are also available on-site.

Your donations make a difference. That gently used coat or those baby items your child has outgrown could mean the world to someone else.

Early December donation from the Knights of Columbus. They collected over 180 brnad-new winter coats, gloves, and hats for children and their families! Photo courtesy to YSS Facebook Page.

Street MOMs

Street MOMs, led by the compassionate duo of Susan Brossman and Lynn Kettler, focuses solely on helping individuals experiencing homelessness. They deliver essential items directly to those who need them most, ensuring no one is left behind.

  • How to Donate: Arrange a pickup or drop-off directly with Susan or Lynn.
  • Contact: Reach out to them via their Facebook page or by phone.

This grassroots effort thrives on community generosity. By donating, you become part of a movement that extends kindness to some of our most vulnerable neighbors.

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Street MOMs, Susan and Lynn, overjoyed and surprised to see an old friend they’ve helped in downtown. Photo courtesy of Street MOMs Facebook Page.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is putting out an urgent call for clothing donations. With a new service center and thrift store set to open in Moundsville soon, the need for contributions has never been greater. Every item you donate supports not just the thrift stores but also vital community services like food, utilities, and rental assistance.

  • Wheeling Location: 121 17th St., Wheeling, WV
  • Drop-Off Hours:
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Moundsville Location: 700 Jefferson Ave., Moundsville, WV
  • Drop-Off Hours: Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

The Salvation Army reminds donors to bring items during drop-off hours and to avoid leaving them outside. Even one small bag of clothing could bring hope to someone struggling this winter.

Salvation Army’s Thrift Store is located at 138 16th Street in Wheeling, WV. The store relies on donations of clothing and household goods from the community, volunteers, employed staff, and the support of the general public.

 

Make a Difference Today

Every scarf, coat, or pair of shoes you donate can spark a ripple effect of kindness. Whether you’re clearing out your home or simply looking for a way to give back, these small acts of generosity have the power to change lives.

If you’re able to contribute, know that your donations—no matter how big or small—will be deeply appreciated by those who receive them. And even if you can’t give this time, spreading the word about these organizations is another way to support their efforts.

Together, we can make Wheeling a place where everyone feels supported, valued, and cared for. Thank you for considering how you might lend a hand and make a difference this new year.

  • Riley Carpenter is a Wheeling local, born and raised. She grew up in Warwood, attended West Liberty University, lived in Oglebay for a short while and now lives in Clearview with her husband, two children and fur babies. Riley loves everything Wheeling related and never has thought of moving away. She taught in Ohio County Schools for nearly ten years, and recently has joined the Wheeling Heritage team as their Director of Programming! Riley is also a photographer, and officially opened her own photography business, Riley Lynn Photography LLC, in 2020. She loves capturing the emotion of joy most of all, no matter what the occasion! 

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