New York Common Pantry reduces hunger and promotes dignity, health and self-sufficiency. Our Choice Pantry Program offers fresh, culturally appropriate and nutritious food free to participants who qualify. Pantry packages are supplemental grocery packages in five food categories: protein, dairy, grains, fruits and vegetables, proportional to the number of individuals in the family and provided every two weeks.
Volunteer roles for the Harlem Choice Pantry include:
- Distribution of food bags to pantry clients. This job is done outdoors.
- Sorting and packing of fresh produce and shelf stable groceries in an assembly-line style process to ensure social distancing standards.
All volunteers must (i) be 16 years of age or older, (ii) wear clothing that can get dirty and closed-toed shoes, like sneakers, (iii) be vaccinated against Covid-19, (iv) sanitize your hands (the pantry has a hand-sanitizing station in the pantry), and (v) wear gloves, which the New York Common Pantry can provide if necessary.
By signing up, volunteers are expected to commit to the entire shift, which may include standing for 3.5 hours and handling up to 30 lbs of groceries. If you find that you can no longer keep your commitment, please provide a minimum of 24 hours notice from the start time of the shift. Additionally, a waiver must be signed by all volunteers in advance. Please see the NY Common Pantry Volunteer Hub for more information.
Contact: Taureen Newland, Yale College
