VOLUNTEER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Volunteers should expect a fast-paced on your feet environment. The day to day will depend on the volunteer’s shift assignment. The different positions are greeting shoppers, packing or loading groceries, or receiving or sorting deliveries. Please discuss any concerns you might have with the volunteer manager, so you get a position that is best for you.

The Pantry welcomes anyone who is interested in volunteering. Our volunteer staff consists of working, unemployed or retired adults, and high school, college, and graduate students who have flexible schedules and time to volunteer. Prospective volunteers who are bilingual Spanish-English speakers are helpful.

Due to safety regulations, volunteers must be 14 years of age or older.

No, volunteers cannot take food while they are working. If you need to shop, you can do so after your shift once you have submitted the New Shopper paperwork.

The application can also be printed out. If you are unable to fill out the form online, please email the volunteer manager with your information and bring the completed forms to your in-person meeting.

The in-person meeting is designed to give you an idea about the Pantry’s day to day operation. It will help the volunteer manager to understand the applicant’s interests and best determine the appropriate day and duties for service.

Please arrive before the Pantry opens, around 7:30 AM to fill out any needed paperwork, take a tour, meet the floor manager, ask any questions, and receive your assigned position. Volunteers MUST wash their hands before starting their shift and throughout their shift.

Shift times vary slightly depending on your position, but volunteers are generally expected to stay the full time the pantry is open from 8:00 am – 10:30 am.

Yes, if your school or place of work provides a verification form please bring that with you. Letters of recommendation or proof of service must be discussed with the volunteer manager.

Please talk to the volunteer manager about court assigned community service hours.

All volunteers need to wear appropriate clothing that may get dirty or torn and only sturdy closed-toe shoes, no flip flops or sandals. Pantry aprons are available for convenience. Gloves will be provided and must be worn when required. Name tags are provided and should be worn.

On-site parking is reserved for volunteer driver drop offs, there is no on-site parking. Please park in the metered parking on Laguna Canyon Road.

Please leave your valuables at home. Small lockers are provided for your personal belongings, but volunteers should bring their own locks if desired. The Laguna Food Pantry is not responsible for volunteers’ personal belongings.

You may bring food for yourself but please keep in mind you are not allowed to eat and drink while working on the floor and while handling the food.

The Pantry is closed to shoppers on Saturdays and Sundays so there is only a small group of volunteers receiving deliveries. If you are interested in working on Saturdays or Sundays, please discuss this with the volunteer manager during your meeting.

You may email the Volunteer Manager with any unanswered questions at volunteer@lagunafoodpantry.org