Balm of Gilead - Food Distribution Center
Who Can Visit?
The Balm of Gilead Food Distribution Center is open to anyone in the community who needs help with food. The ministry serves the Las Vegas area, especially people in the 89169 zip code. Everyone is welcome, including homeless neighbors, struggling families, and individuals dealing with hardship. No church membership is required to receive food.
Good to Know
You'll want to arrive early if you'd like the best selection. One visitor shared that "you have to arrive early in order to get the good food." The pantry is open on Fridays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and you must be in line and receive a ticket no later than 3:30 p.m. to be served that day. There's also a free food distribution event on the fourth Saturday of the month, so it's worth checking the calendar for those extra days.
Food & Essentials
The food pantry takes part in TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), which means they receive government-sourced food to hand out at no cost. Visitors have reported getting a wide variety of items. One person shared "this will fill up your fridge for every week," while another said "I got a variety of things." The selection can include both fresh food and shelf-stable items. Arriving early gives you the best chance of picking up what you need most.
How to Pick Up
When you come to the pantry on Fridays, get in line and receive a ticket before 3:30 p.m. to make sure you're served. The food giveaway on the fourth Saturday of the month follows a similar open distribution format. The website notes that if a date is listed on the calendar as "Food Pantry" or "Free Food Distribution," they are open that day. If it's not on the calendar, they are not open that day, so there's no need to call ahead.
Additional Support
Beyond the weekly food pantry, the ministry partners with LV Reach (located next door) and offers outreach programs in the community. Their vision includes providing training, food items, and support to help develop the whole person. The ministry also works with local organizations to connect people to employment assistance, life skills training, and rehabilitation programs.
Ways to Give
You can support the Balm of Gilead in a few different ways. Online giving is available at their website, where you can give once, bi-weekly, or monthly. You can also give by text by sending "BOGGIVE" to (888) 364-4483. Giving in person is always welcome during Sunday or Wednesday services. If you're out of state, you can mail a check and it will be deposited within 72 hours. For questions about giving, reach out to them at (702) 586-1116 or bogministries2015@gmail.com.
How to Join the Team?
If you'd like to volunteer at the food pantry or Farmer's Market, call (702) 586-1112 and ask to speak with a volunteer coordinator. They'll walk you through the next steps. For general volunteering within the church, you can also sign up at their volunteer page or fill out the contact form there. The team is known for working hard and having a great time doing it, and they welcome people who are ready to roll up their sleeves and help.