Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept Corporate Match donations?
Yes, we do. Please complete your donation through your organization’s corporate match platform. Typically our organization is found under the name Vetgroup, Inc, as that is registered with the IRS. This is a great way to make your donation have an even greater impact.
What items do you need for the food pantry?
We accept nonperishable food items, canned goods, pasta, coffee, cereal, oatmeal, tuna and canned chicken, ketchup, mustard, relish, peanut butter, and jelly. We also accept toiletries and cleaning products. WE DO NOT TAKE FRESH FOOD ITEMS; WE ARE UNABLE TO REFRIGERATE THEM.
What can I donate besides food for the pantry?
We accept monetary donations through our website; you can also donate in person at our office. We accept gift cards to local grocery stores such as Lidl, Walmart, and Shoprite. We also accept gift cards for Wawa, which our clients can use for fuel. We ask that Gift Card denominations be no more than $25.00.
Do you take household goods donations?
Unfortunately, due to our restricted storage space in our building, we do not. We do, however, have a wonderful working relationship with the Lacey United Methodist Church, which has a Thrift Store, if you would like to donate those items to them. Those funds could help to fund our Veteran transitional housing program that they have partnered with us to start, known as Mt. Zion, located on their church grounds.
Do you accept clothing donations?
We do accept clothing donations, but there are some restrictions. Due to covid, all used clothing must come from a dry cleaner so it can be verifiably cleaned and safe. New clothing does not have to go through this process.
What clothing items do you need?
This question really depends on the time of year, and I would encourage you to call the office and ask one of our staff to be sure. The office number is 609-971-7613.
Do you accept medical device donations; for example, walkers, canes, wheel chairs, or motorized scooters?
The short answer is yes, but the long answer is please call the office to confirm due again to the limited storage space that we have available.
Do you have any Vetwork merchandise available for purchase?
Yes, we do. You can find it here on our website and order it directly from the page. Be sure to buy something and show your support!
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes, it most certainly is, Vetwork is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. We can provide a receipt for all donations made.
Is my donation going to the veterans?
Yes, your donations are going to the veterans and the services we provide to the veterans here in Ocean and Monmouth County and the surrounding areas, we are a nonprofit, and as such, our books are open for inspection.
I heard that Vetwork had some issues with their employees stealing in the past. Is that true?
Yes, it is true. There were 3 employees that were prosecuted for theft of funds by the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office. The Vetwork Board of Directors then took action to remove all of the employees and hire all new staff and put new safeguards in place. Audits were done and we have rebuilt our reputation and our brand to come back stronger than ever over the past 3 years.
Is it true that you now have the Ocean County funding back?
Yes, as of 2023, we once again have been the recipient of the Ocean County Veteran Services contract and will continue to provide services to Ocean County veterans. We will also continue to submit our bid for this contract annually to be able to provide those services without interruption for our clients.
Are all of your services free to veterans?
Yes, ALL of our services are free to our clients. We do not take any form of payment from our veterans for services provided.
Do you have volunteer opportunities at Vetwork?
Yes, we do sometimes have events and we may need volunteers, so keep an eye on the events calendar or call the office for information about volunteering.
Can I donate to your veteran transitional housing program specifically?
Yes, when you make your donation, just put Mt. Zion or Veteran Housing in the memo line.
Do you accept vehicle donations?
This is a great question; we will pair you with a veteran in need of a vehicle that has been vetted by Vetwork and is in need of a vehicle so that you may donate it directly to them. This makes the process easier for everyone involved and less steps when dealing with the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission.
Can I drop off my donations after your posted business hours?
Yes, we will have donation boxes for donations to be left in on both the front and side porches to be used for after-hours drops starting March 1st, 2023.