Food Bank For New York City

Q: How do I become a Food Bank volunteer?

A: Becoming a Food Bank volunteer is quick and easy! Simply register on our site by clicking here. All you have to do is answer a few simple questions and you’re all ready to go! After you’ve created your profile, you can browse our calendar of opportunities where you can directly sign up for shifts.

Q: Do I need to attend an orientation?

A: All volunteers are oriented on site by Food Bank staff onsite at the volunteer project. They’ll tell you all about the project and the impact you will make, and are available to answer any questions you have.

Q: What type of volunteer projects do you have?

A: We have volunteer projects that happen all across New York City serving meals, distributing food, stocking pantries and more. Most of our projects take place Monday through Friday, with some weekend opportunities. Take a look at our calendar to browse where you can help.

Q: Can I bring a guest to volunteer with me?

A: Every volunteer must be signed up online first. We do not accept walk-in volunteers. But please do encourage your friends to create accounts and sign up to volunteer with you!

Q: Can I bring my child to volunteer with me?

A: At this time, we have limited in-person opportunities that can accommodate youth. You can view specific age requirements for each project on the opportunity details. As we continue to reopen our volunteer programs, we do hope to have more youth-friendly opportunities available in the coming months.

Q: What should I wear?

A: Volunteers are expected to present a neat appearance and dress according to the requirements of the volunteer shift. We ask that volunteers do not wear revealing attire such as muscle shirts, crop tops, “short shorts” or see-through clothing. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required for safety. Ballet flats, loafers, sandals, flip flops, Crocs and high-heels are not allowed. Our staff reserves the right to turn away or reassign volunteers not dressed appropriately for their shift. Please always review the opportunity details for any shift specific recommendations.

Q: I need to cancel a volunteer shift – how can I do that?

A: You can remove yourself from opportunities online in your ‘account overview’. Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Engagement Team at (212) 566 - 7855 dial 5 or volunteer@foodbanknyc.org.

Q: Do you provide verification of service/school credit?

A: Once you have completed your volunteer hours, we are happy to provide you with a letter of confirmation on official letterhead, sent via email. This letter is acceptable verification for most courts, schools, and other organizations. To request a letter, send an email to volunteer@foodbanknyc.org with the following information: Full name, reason for letter (court, school, job application, etc.), date needed and proper contact information.

Q: Where can I find exact location information for my volunteer opportunity?

A: Location details are provided in your confirmation email once you’ve signed up for a project.

Q: Can volunteers take photos?

A: We love volunteer photos! Grab a photo of yourself or your team in action and share on our social media channels. You can tag us on Facebook (Food Bank For New York City) or Twitter & Instagram (@FoodBank4NYC). Photos should not include clients or product for privacy reasons.

Q: Can I volunteer with a team?

A: Absolutely. In “My Account” click “Create a Team,” then add new members. Then you can click “Sign up with a team” at any project! Not sure if you've signed up properly? Give the Volunteer Engagement Team a call.

Q: I’m having trouble logging in to my online account, what should I do?

A: You can contact our Volunteer Engagement Team for any questions you might have! Email us at volunteer@foodbanknyc.org or call us at (212)566-7855 dial 5.

Q: Do you accept international volunteers?

A: We sure do. Our system only accepts US addresses. If you're visiting from abroad, you should put down the address where you'll be staying while you're here.

Q: How do I waitlist myself for an opportunity? What happens next?

A: When an opportunity is full, our system won’t allow you to sign up. Instead, it will give you the option to be waitlisted. This means that when a spot opens up, you’ll receive an email letting you know you can sign up. Be sure to head to our site as soon as you see the email – because other waitlisted volunteers will receive that email, too, and there might only be one spot!

Q: Can I volunteer with my corporate group?

A: Of course! Organizations can partner with Food Bank to build a unique team volunteer experience. Food Bank has designed and delivered custom opportunities to groups in corporate offices, schools, community organizations, and many other locations.

Customized projects include a sponsorship fee. To learn more, contact Jessica Presedo, Director of Corporate Service & Engagement, at jpresedo@foodbanknyc.org.

Q: Do you have any virtual volunteer opportunities?

A: Food Bank's Social Media Ambassador program allows volunteers to serve anywhere at any time. Ambassadors direct resources to those who need it, encourage support from those who can give, and inspire others to speak up for causes they care about. There is no sign-up, application, or orientation required – simply follow the prompts and post to get started!

Q: What if I have to come late/leave early?

A: All volunteers are expected to arrive on time and stay for the duration of the volunteer shift. We ask that you only register for a volunteer shift if you are to commit to the full duration. If you have a last-minute schedule change, please reach out to volunteer@foodbanknyc.org or notify your onsite contact.

Q: Can I attend two volunteer shifts in one day?

A: Yes, you can! If you would like to serve two volunteer shifts in one day at the same location, be sure to register for both shifts on our volunteer portal.

If you have any additional questions that were not captured above, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at volunteer@foodbanknyc.org. We look forward to serving with you soon!

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