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Who Can Visit?
Mercy Drops Dream Center is open to everyone in need. They serve people experiencing homelessness, individuals and families in under-resourced neighborhoods, veterans, and youth and seniors in the foster care system. There are no restrictions based on race, religion, gender, age, disability, or any other characteristic. Every service they offer is always free of charge.
Good to Know
The staff and volunteers are known for being warm, welcoming, and full of smiles. Reviewers describe it as a place of love and peace where everyone — whether they're coming for help or dropping off a donation — is greeted with kindness and a helping hand.
Food & Essentials
Mercy Drops Dream Center provides groceries and care packages to community members in need. In addition to food, they also distribute clothing and other everyday essentials. Everything is given at no cost.
How to Pick Up
Care package distribution takes place on Mondays from 4:30 to 6:15 p.m. at the MDDC campus at 504 McLean Street, Portsmouth, VA 23701.
Additional Support
Mercy Drops Dream Center goes beyond food. They deliver food out into the community through outreach and adopt-a-block programs in neighborhoods like Dale Homes. They also host special community events, such as Halloween costume giveaways for kids and families. Their focus is on meeting both immediate and long-term needs, connecting people with a supportive community.
Facilities
The Dream Closet is a free clothing resource available on Saturdays from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Volunteers staff the closet to help guests find what they need.
Ways to Give
Mercy Drops Dream Center welcomes donations of useful items such as clothing and groceries. You can also give financially through one-time or monthly donations at donate.mercydrops.life. They also accept cryptocurrency, appreciated stocks, and donor-advised funds (DAFs) through their Modern Giving program, powered by The Giving Block. You can reach them at info@mercydrops.life for more information.
How to Join the Team?
There are volunteer opportunities for all skill levels and schedules. You can browse and sign up for shifts on their Volunteer Calendar. If you're curious and want to learn more before jumping in, you can RSVP for an Interest Meeting, held on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at the MDDC campus. Register at the Interest Meeting page. You can also email them at info@mercydrops.life with questions.
Nearby Food Pantries
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Village Family is open to anyone in need. Whether you're dealing with a temporary hardship or just need a little extra support, you're welcome to come. You can complete an intake form before visiting
The Community Feed at Jordan-Newby is open to anyone who needs food. You just need to sign up for a card when you visit for the first time.