Our Volunteer Program

Our mission to serve the food needs of our local community within an atmosphere of dignity and respect is truly what neighbors helping neighbors is all about. We are a small, volunteer-lead organization, with an equally small staff. Because of our volunteers, our staff builds the systems to better support our neighbors who visit us each day to receive food. Volunteers support our mission because of their time commitment. The Market is our program in which the bulk of volunteering takes place.

Volunteering with us comes to life within all our programs. Including the market, food distributions, health screenings, school partnerships, data analysis, event opportunities, leadership committees, and more!

We are truly grateful to all of the volunteers who donate the gift of their time!

14,001+

Volunteer hours donated in 2023

In The Market

Interact with clients from welcome to check out

In The Warehouse

Use your elbow grease for quality control

Apply Now

Our primary program within our Food Bank is a Client Choice model food pantry. It allows Franklin Families to shop in our market for groceries as needed, up to twice per month, this thoughtful program designed to provide individualized grocery needs. The market is open five days a week, including two evenings and a weekend option to accommodate working families.This bustling, cheerful market we lovingly call "Bodega Joe's" features an impressive variety of food items, including fresh produce, plenty of refrigerated and froen foods and even non-foods such as health and beauty aids, detergents, pet food and diapers. The presence of well organized and fresh food is only part of this atmosphere. There is a cozy, friendly vibe flowing through our market with music playing constantly, familiar and smiling faces and helping hands.

How can I sign up?

Fill out the application, wait for our Volunteer Coordinator to reach out to you. You will receive the link to now attend Orientation.

Apply

What can I expect?

There are 3 main roles in the Market, sorter, stocker, and cashier.

Across every role you can expect to be on your feet. Depending on the role, the tasks range from sorting based on quality, or lifting 30+ lbs repetitively.

Why do you need volunteers?

We have a small but mighty staff who manage our organization, building systems to support food access within our community.

Volunteers fill the vital positions within the Market, 5 days a week. Because of volunteer dedication, we are able to provide a true "shopping" experience for every client. In an atmosphere of dignity of respect.

Who can volunteer?

We welcome volunteers ages 17 and up to volunteer at the Franklin Food Bank!

Our dedicated and diverse group of volunteers range from students to senior citizens to corporate social responsibility to events.

Community service hours are available for students!

What days of the week do you need volunteer support?

Monday: 2 - 7pm

Tuesday: 10am - 2pm

Wednesday: 10am - 2pm

Thursday: 2 - 7pm

Saturday 9am - 12pm

How long are volunteer shifts?

We truly rely on volunteers to commit to at least one full 3-hour shift each week to help us fulfill our mission.

All other volunteer opportunities have a variety of time commitments.

Will there be on-site training to volunteer?

Once the application is reviewed and approved, our staff will invite you to attend the Orientation. Volunteers will be provided with education, historical knowledge, and diversity training to be more equipped before you volunteer.

For those who commit, a Franklin Food Bank volunteer t-shirt will be provided to you!