Want to roll up your sleeves during the holiday season and do some volunteering with your family – but you’re not sure what to do or where to start? We’ve got you covered! As food banks find new ways to keep food on the table for people in response to the pandemic, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer while staying safe. It’s a great way to make an impact as a family, feel good about doing good, and start a new tradition!

1. Contact your local food bank for holiday volunteering opportunities Don’t know if there are food programs in your neighborhood? Your local food bank probably will. They should be able to tell you which local food pantries and food programs need volunteers. Once you know who to contact, give them a call! Around the holidays, volunteer slots fill up fast so don’t wait to reach out.

2. Find the best time for your family At the end of the year, there are usually more volunteer opportunities to pack meals for families and distribute food in your community. Food programs operate in the morning, afternoon, and evening. If you sign up early, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a time that fits your family’s schedule. And, if one program’s schedule doesn’t work for you, try getting in touch with another food program in your area.

Distributing food to your neighbors: This could including packing food boxes and loading them into cars at a drive-through pantry or mobile pantry, helping with check-in and answering visitor questions, and keeping food well-stocked.