What and Why
The Food Bank has long used a partner model for food distribution. Many partners closed during the pandemic, though many of the health concerns have subsided, food insecurity remains a persistent issue. Volunteer support at a partner goes a long way toward supporting participants in their neighborhoods. The Food Bank is actively looking to reopen and launch new Partner Pantries.
Signing up for a Partner Pantry opportunity means that a Food Bank staff person will not be present when you volunteer, you will be working directly with the partner.
Volunteer roles may be different at each site, but in general you will be asked to help set up, build grocery bags, distribute food, check-in participants, manage the line, clean up, and other tasks that may arise.
Please note: the length of distribution is dependent upon attendance and participant numbers may change from week to week.
How
Find the right opportunity and sign up.
Where:
- Click here to see opportunities (toggle between list, calendar, or map view using the buttons on the right side of the page above the calendar, as shown below)
- By weekday: Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday
- By County: San Francisco | Marin
Who:
- Volunteers MUST be 18 years or older unless noted.
- Please only volunteer if you have responded to an opportunity.
- Please read these guidelines for serving at a Partner Pantry.
- Shifts at Partner Pantries do not qualify for SFMTA, SF Court, and Project 20 hours, more info here.
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Guidelines:
- Only volunteer if you are healthy and completely comfortable serving. Please consider your own health before volunteering.
- Closed-toe shoes are required at all volunteer projects.
- Depending on the partner, gloves may or may not be provided, we encourage you to bring your own
- We recommend volunteers not wear jewelry. If worn, all items must be covered by the provided gloves and/or hairnets.
- We will be outside, please wear comfortable clothing (we recommend layers, a hat, and sunscreen due to the ever-changing weather conditions).
- Be aware there will not be a place to store personal belongings, please do not bring valuables.
Thank you for your support!
