Walmart Partners with Helping Hands to Make an Impact in Leesville

When Theresa Brown first took the helm about four years ago, Helping Hands Storefront Ministries served around 40 to 50 households a week. But as the years passed, the need in the community increased dramatically. Now, Helping Hands provides food assistance to as many as 150 families each week, with an average of 25 new families seeking help for the first time.

The surge in demand has been driven by the rising cost of groceries, a challenge that Theresa hears echoed by nearly every family that walks through the pantry's doors. “So many of our neighbors tell us how hard it is to feed themselves and their families with the way prices keep going up,” Theresa said. “But even in the toughest of times, they are incredibly grateful for what we can provide. Every loaf of bread, every carton of eggs, every bag of produce means something.”

One of the pantry’s greatest supporters is Walmart in Leesville, whose generosity through their Retail Store Donation Program has made a significant impact. Thanks to their regular donations, Theresa and her team of volunteers are able to offer fresh meats, produce, cheeses, and even bakery items that might otherwise be out of reach for their neighbors.

Theresa’s face lights up when she talks about the impact these donations have. "Walmart’s support is invaluable. Twice a week, I go to pick up food, and it’s always a blessing to see what we can bring back. The families here wouldn’t be able to get these items elsewhere, and it really helps stretch the meals we can offer."

But it's not just the food donations that keep Helping Hands running—it’s the heart and soul of the volunteers. “We couldn’t do any of this without our volunteers,” Theresa said with gratitude. “They give their time, their energy, and their hearts to make sure everything gets sorted, packaged, and distributed. Their support is what truly makes this work possible.”

For Theresa, each week brings a mixture of challenges and rewards. As the pantry has grown, so has the sense of community around it. “Walmart is truly making an impact for this community.  I see it every time I pick up the food from our local store to bring to our pantry to share with our neighbors,” said Theresa.