Economic Assistance Office Distribution Site Volunteer

Join us in the fight to End Hunger in Our Community! Your time and effort help provide nutritious food to 142,000 individuals in need. Your support makes a meaningful impact—thank you for being part of this vital work!

As a Distribution Site Volunteer, you’ll distribute fresh produce, pantry staples, and healthy groceries to our neighbors. To learn more about this opportunity, watch our Food Distribution Volunteer & Safety Guidelines video. (Click here for Spanish video)

Volunteer Shift Registration

• All volunteers, including children, must register individually before their shift. Volunteers under 18 must have a guardian present unless prior approval is obtained from both the guardian and Redwood Empire Food Bank staff.

• To be fully prepared, we require all volunteers to review our Volunteer Handbook, which covers key details on volunteering with groups/teams, policies, and FAQs. 

• We value respect, fairness, and kindness—negative remarks or harassment will not be tolerated. Volunteers 18+ must complete Civil Rights training before their shift.

• Tracking your hours? Visit our Verifying Hours page for step-by-step instructions.

Before You Arrive & What to Expect

• Food distributions can be fast-paced, with both walk-up and drive-thru recipients picking up food. 

• Volunteers assist with set-up until clean-up. Expect to be on your feet and lift 15-35 lbs throughout your entire shift. 

• If you need food assistance while volunteering, please speak with the Site Coordinator.

• Wearing sturdy, closed-toed shoes is required. Crocs and slip-on styles are not permitted.

• Bring your own water bottle and dress comfortably in layers, preferably bright colors or a safety vest for visibility.

• Arrive on time and check in with the Site Coordinator, who will provide safety guidelines, assign roles, and check you in for the shift before the distribution begins.