Straight answers for our community

Getting help

Where can I find a food pantry near me in Luzerne County?

Our NEPA Pantry Paths guide maps food pantries, community meals, and emergency food support town by town across Luzerne County — including Wilkes-Barre, Nanticoke, Hazleton, Pittston, Plymouth, and the Back Mountain — with eligibility requirements and operating hours listed for each area.

I'm facing homelessness in Luzerne County. What should I do?

Reach out to us at [email protected] and we will help you navigate available options. SWR connects veterans, youth, and families to housing resources, with case coordination and peer support. For immediate emergency shelter, dial 211 — Pennsylvania's free, 24/7 resource helpline.

Is there housing help for veterans in Northeastern Pennsylvania?

Yes. SWR focuses specifically on veterans experiencing housing instability. Our housing partnership pairs affordable units with trauma-informed case coordination and peer support from people who understand military service. Contact us and we'll walk the path with you.

Where can I find mental-health support in the Wilkes-Barre area?

SWR connects neighbors to mental-health and social services through our partner network, which includes NAMI Northeast Pennsylvania, regional health systems, and county mental-health services. Email us and we'll help you find the right door — with dignity, and without judgment.

Does it cost anything to get help from the Susquehanna Warrior Reserve?

No. Every connection we make — to food, housing, mental-health support, or other services — is free. Our work is funded by donations, sponsorships, and community fundraising events.

Giving, volunteering & partnering

How are donations to the Susquehanna Warrior Reserve used?

Donations fund our core programs: the NEPA Pantry Paths food-access guide, housing stability coordination, Restorative Luncheons for Luzerne County corrections officers, and the Connected NEPA resource directory. We maintain transparent funding practices aligned with Government Finance Officers Association standards.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Donations are processed through The Luzerne Foundation, a 501(c)(3) community foundation serving Luzerne County. You will receive a receipt for tax purposes when you give through our donation portal.

How can my business sponsor the Susquehanna Warrior Reserve?

Businesses can sponsor SWR events like the 5K Run/Walk for Warriors and Cornhole for a Cause, or build a year-round partnership with the coalition. Email [email protected] to talk through sponsorship for upcoming events.

How can I volunteer with SWR in Luzerne County?

We welcome volunteers for community events, the Winter Support Network, and program support. Email [email protected] and tell us how you'd like to help — every skill has a place in the coalition.

My organization provides services in NEPA. How do we join the network?

Nonprofits, churches, and service organizations can register for the Connected NEPA directory, and food-assistance providers can join the Pantry Paths guide through our submission form. Both are free and help streamline referrals across the region.