St. Barnabas Produce Distribution

Why: Our work is challenging, demanding, and highly rewarding. The immediacy and importance of a need as basic as the food to feed one's family mean that our volunteers are making an unfiltered connection with those we serve, and directly impact their lives.

Who: St. Barnabas produce distribution program is powered by a group of dedicated volunteers. Since March 2020, the Saint Be. community has worked tirelessly to provide hundreds of families with fresh, healthy foods. Food insecurity is a constant challenge in the greater Los Angeles area. Our community, in collaboration with Seeds of Hope and Food Forward, shows up each week to alleviate some of the ever-growing needs.

• What to Expect: Each Thursday, volunteers can gather to prepare family-size servings of fresh fruit, produce, and other foodstuffs.
• A cohort of volunteers will also prepare up to 100 pounds of produce for our two commercial dehydrators to create shelf-stable snacks and meal kits.
• Around 10:30 AM, once the prep is complete, we hand out the packages among community members on a first-come, first-served basis. Volunteers are a huge aid in every step of the process.
• From sorting produce through assembling and handing out packages to the last moments of cleanup, you will have ample opportunity to help.
• This is an outdoor event, so be sure to prepare for the given weather conditions of the day. Volunteers are provided with water and there is ample shade, but the California noonday sun is still a consideration.
• Volunteers also have an opportunity to take home unclaimed packages and leftovers at the end of the day.
• The event is accessible to all volunteers. Differently, abled volunteers and volunteers with any special considerations will be accommodated. Just let us know what you need! ¡Hablamos español también!
• What's Required: There are no requirements for this opportunity, apart from a large amount of motivation and willingness to put the work in.