Volunteer at Berkeley (Helios Corner): Food Distribution Helper

Description:

This opportunity is for volunteers to support a Brown Bag food distribution program at Helios Corner for low‑income residents who have expressed interest in food assistance. Volunteers will help set up deliveries, organize food items, and support residents during distribution. Mandarin language skills are helpful to communicate with residents.

Reports to:

Volunteer Coordinator and the site’s Service Coordinator

Goal of Position:

To assist with the organization and distribution of food to support the health, nutrition, and well‑being of residents while fostering a respectful and orderly distribution process.

Specific Tasks:

1. Collect and organize food deliveries from the Berkeley Food Pantry and Daily Bread volunteers.
2. Sort, bag, and stack food items based on distribution guidelines.
3. Label quantities for each item residents are allowed to receive.
4. Monitor residents as they arrive and distribute food in an organized manner.
5. Keep track of residents who have received their monthly food bag.
6. Gather resident feedback and share it with the Service Coordinator.
7. Assist with cleanup after distribution and return the space to its original setup.

Qualifications:

Physical/Age Requirements:

• Able to lift and carry food supplies.
• Able to stand and move around for several hours.

Skills/Education/Experience:

• Interest in supporting food access and community wellness.
• Comfortable working with senior and diverse populations.
• Ability to work as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Mandarin language skills strongly preferred but not required.
• Prior volunteer or community service experience is a plus.

Benefits to the Volunteer:

1. Provide meaningful support to an underserved community.
2. Gain experience in food distribution and community engagement.
3. Work with a diverse group of residents, including non‑English speakers.
4. Support residents’ health, wellness, and nutrition.
5. Help reduce social isolation by engaging directly with residents during distribution.