Volunteers are the epicenter of our operations, and are fundamental to meeting our mission of alleviating hunger throughout Franklin County and the North Quabbin. They provide a foundation on which we are able to build and expand our programs in order to meet the needs of our neighbors. At FCCMP, we approach our work through the belief that we are all “neighbors feeding neighbors” here to foster community and build connections. Volunteers play an essential part by stepping up as neighbors and making an impact in their community!

fccmp volunteers
Join our community!  Volunteer responsibilities range from donating time and skill at various meal sites to organizing food drives/donations, delivering meals or groceries, and more. You can choose to be an individual volunteer and work alongside other like-minded people in your area, or you can be a part of a volunteer group, which can be anything ranging from a business, to a church, to a group of dedicated friends!
If you care about treating your neighbors with dignity, meeting other passionate and driven people, and helping feed your neighbors, consider volunteering with our team!

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

To volunteer at one of our meal sites or events, contact volunteer@fccmp.org.
To volunteer at our Orange Food Pantry, contact orangepantry@fccmp.org.

VOLUNTEER QUICK GUIDE

BEFORE YOUR SHIFT
  • Sign up or confirm your volunteer shift. There are several volunteer roles at the pantry and typically two kinds of shifts at our meal sites:
  1. Kitchen help (preparing meals, assembling take out meals, washing pots)
  2. Service help (setting up and breaking down, serving food and take out, cleaning up)
  • Stay home if you are feeling unwell. If you need to miss a shift, please let your Site Coordinator know or email volunteer@fccmp.org as soon as possible.
  • Arrive on time and check in with staff.
  • Leave valuables at home or in your vehicle.
WHAT TO WEAR
MEAL SITES
  • Closed-toe, non-slip shoes. Shirts with sleeves.
  • Wear comfortable, appropriate clothing suitable for safe kitchen and serving work.
  • Hat, hairnet, bandana, or other hair covering when preparing food. Hairnets and aprons are available on site for you to use.
PANTRY
  • Comfortable, appropriate clothing suitable for pantry and serving work.
  • Closed-toe shoes are required for safety.
  • Dress in layers, as pantry areas may vary in temperature.
  • Gloves and hair coverings are not required for pantry distribution shifts unless otherwise directed by staff.
DURING YOUR SHIFT
  • Follow staff instructions.
  • Sign in and out.
  • Wash hands frequently.
  • Wear gloves when handling food.
  • Change gloves when changing tasks.
  • Ask for help lifting heavy items.
  • Help keep work areas clean and organized.
HOW WE TREAT GUESTS
  • Treat every guest with dignity and respect.
  • Greet guests warmly and, when appropriate, offer brief conversation to help create a welcoming, connected environment.
  • Be welcoming and inclusive.
  • Respect guests’ food choices and maintain a dignified, nonjudgmental environment.
  • Respect privacy and confidentiality.
IF SOMEONE BECOMES UPSET

Use the CARES model:

WHEN TO GET STAFF

Immediately notify staff if:

  • Someone becomes threatening.
  • You feel unsafe.
  • A guest refuses to calm down.
  • There is a medical issue.
  • You are unsure how to respond.
WHEN TO CALL 911

Call 911 immediately if:

  • Physical violence is occurring or imminent.
  • A weapon is present or being threatened.
  • Someone threatens serious harm to themselves or others.
  • There is a severe medical emergency.
  • There is a fire or immediate danger.

Do not call 911 for:

  • Verbal complaints or arguments.
  • Frustration, anger, or emotional distress.
  • Complaints about food, wait times, or program rules.
  • Non-threatening disruptive behavior.

Instead:

  • Use the CARES model.
  • Notify the site coordinator or staff immediately.
  • Maintain a safe distance.
  • Move yourself or others away from unsafe situations if necessary.