What are the volunteer shifts?
We are open Monday through Friday, and have shifts open each day from 9:30am-1:30pm. There are no weekend or evening volunteer opportunities.
We do ask that if you commit to volunteering, to please stay for the entire shift. We can not accommodate late arrivals or early departures.
What will I be doing when I volunteer?
We ask volunteers to arrive promptly by 9:30am. You will assist with some light meal prep (cutting vegetables, bagging loose produce, etc.) and cleaning (wiping tables, sweeping/mopping, etc.). You may be asked to help in our pantry cellar, assisting with deliveries or organization of stock.
All volunteers are welcome to eat lunch before we open our doors to our guests for lunch.
Food service starts at 11am, and ends at 12pm. You may be asked to assist with some cleaning as lunch comes to an end.
Then, after the lunch service ends at 12pm, we begin transitioning to a food pantry, opening at 12:30pm for an hour (until 1:30pm).
During the pantry, you will be distributing bags that you packed earlier in the day to families, based on their household size.
What do I need to bring?
Just a willingness to work. We provide all food safety materials like hand soap/sanitizer, aprons, hairnets, and gloves for all our volunteers. Wearing head coverings (hairnets, hats, etc.) is required by law, and will be strictly enforced. A baseball cap is an acceptable substitute for a hairnet and can be worn in place of one.
What should I wear?
We ask that you please dress modestly and comfortably as you will be on your feet most of the day. Because of the health code, no tank tops or open-toed/open-heeled sandals are allowed (i.e. no flip flops, etc.) - you will be sent home. If you're questioning if a specific type of sandal is inappropriate, it most likely is.
I want to volunteer as a group with my office/school/church. How do we sign up?
We are happy to host your group! For group scheduling, email Executive Director, Alex Lawrence, directly to book a day experience for your group, alex@safhnyc.org.