In our warehouse
About 15% of the donated food that comes to us has special handling requirements, which we couldn’t meet without volunteers! We welcome individuals and groups Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm and alternate Saturdays 8 am to 1pm. Children under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear closed shoes for safety – absolutely NO flip-flops are allowed. We suggest older clothing and extra layers during cooler weather. Work-appropriate shorts are fine when it’s warm.
On the farms
For decades, generous local farmers allow us to “glean” or pick produce from local farms and orchards. Gleaning brings in much-needed healthy, fresh produce—and families tell us it’s a wonderful way to spend a day. The gleaning season generally begins in late June and runs through October. We pick a wide variety of fruits and vegetables including strawberries, tomatoes, and apples. In 2011, this program brought in more than 42,000 pounds of fresh food.
In our offices
Want to do something simple – but still important! – in a comfortable, friendly setting? Consider volunteering in our Comstock Park offices during the work week.
Interested?
To learn more about volunteering, or to schedule a time to visit the food bank, please e-mail Dena Rogers or contact her by phone at (616) 389-6351. Then, get directions or print a map.
Liability Waiver
All food bank volunteers must sign a liability waiver and volunteer agreement (which also includes an optional photo release). Please download a copy of the liability waiver here and the volunteer agreement here, fill them out, and bring them with you when you come to the food bank for the first time.
Special Project
What does hunger look like in America? We are participating in a nationwide Hunger Study to learn just that. We need volunteers to collect survey responses to make it happen. Your responsibilities will include receiving training, speaking with food pantry clients, and providing them with on-site technological assistance as needed. We hope you’ll commit 3-12 hours per week for at least 6 weeks during the survey period (April – August). Contact Elianna by email or phone (616-389-6349) to get on board.
