(Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

PARKERSBURG — The first Saturday in May is the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization’s National Day of Service, but VFW Post 1212 in Parkersburg is making it a month-long effort.

The post will serve free pulled pork and salads from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at 1630 Garfield Ave., Parkersburg

“Everybody is welcome to come to the post so we can show appreciation for the support we receive from the community,” said Chad Conley, senior vice commander of the post.

Throughout the month, the post is conducting a food drive to benefit Disabled American Veterans Chapter 32 food pantry in Wood County. People can drop off non-perishable items at the post from May 1-31. At the end of the month, Post 1212 members will deliver the donations to the DAV pantry.

The post is also collecting items for the homeless. Conley said they will accept socks, blankets, coats, personal hygiene items and anything else people think would be helpful.

Whenever someone brings a donation for either collection, they will receive a ticket for a drawing for a prize basket.

The drawing is planned for Friday, May 30, when local musician and homeless advocate Moon King will hold a free performance from 7-9 p.m. at the post.