Question 1

What is it like to volunteer at the Pantry?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Who can volunteer?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Can children volunteer?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

Because I am a volunteer can I take food?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What if I cannot fill out the application form online?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

Why do I need to have an in-person meeting before starting?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What do I do on my first day?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

How long is a usual shift?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Do you verify service hours for school or work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Can I complete court assigned community service hours at the Pantry?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

What should I wear to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

Where do I park?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

Is there a place to put my belongings during my shift at the Pantry?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

Can I bring my own food to eat during my shift?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

Are there volunteer opportunities on Saturdays and Sundays?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

I have additional questions that are not answered here. Who can I contact?

Accepted Answer

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

VOLUNTEER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS