Foodlink will distribute over 2 million pounds of emergency food to our network of nonprofit partners, (pantries, shelters, meal programs) to meet the emerging needs as households seek to stock additional food items. We need assistance preparing food bundles for delivery. Volunteers will help pack 40-50 pound boxes or BackPack bags of emergency food for seniors, families, and individuals in need. Projects are assigned on an as-needed basis.
Requirements: We are following all safe volunteering guidelines provided by local health officials and the CDC. Thank you for helping us ensure the safety of our volunteers, staff, community partners and those whom we serve.
Volunteers must:
- be between 16 and 60 years of age
- have no chronic illnesses such as diabetes, lung disease or heart disease.
- show no signs of any symptoms including a fever, cough or shortness of breath, or have been around anyone with these COVID-19 symptoms.
- not have traveled outside of western NY within the last 14 days
- practice social distancing measures (no handshakes, wash hands frequently, stand six feet apart, proper cough/sneezing etiquette, etc.)
- Additional safety precautions will be taken before, during and after the shift
Gloves & masks: Gloves and masks will not be provided by Foodlink for this volunteer activity. Gloves are NOT recommended, according to Monroe County Health Department officials, as improper use increases the risk of spreading the coronavirus. According to recent guidelines posted by the Centers for Disease Control, the public is recommended to wear cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Face coverings, however, are NOT a substitute for social distancing and other risk-reduction measures.
We recommend bringing: Your energy! Please wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable/weather-appropriate clothing. Bring a water bottle, and layers (in case you get cold, or hot).
Physical intensity: Moderate; will include walking and lifting boxes from 25-50 lbs.
Location: Convention Center. 123 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604
The Convention Center is closed to the public, but will be open for food packing purposes only
Parking: Volunteers may Park in South Ave lot. Please bring your ticket with you, and present it to a Foolink staff member for validation.
Upon Arrival: Cross the pedestrian bridge and look for signage directing you where to go next. Foodlink staff will greet and guide you to the packing area.
After signing up: You will receive a confirmation email.
Volunteer Essential Status
Governor Cuomo's recent Executive Order mandates that "non-essential" workers stay home exempts food banks, food pantries, and other emergency programs ... AND THEIR VOLUNTEERS. (We always knew volunteers were essential, and NYS just confirmed it!)
Shifts Full? If the shifts are all full, and you are still interested in Volunteering with Foodlink, please sign up for their Waitlist here.
Have Questions? Please email Volunteer@uwrochester.org
