Get Involved

Volunteering at The Food Pantry at Columbia is a deeply impactful and meaningful way to support the well-being of fellow students. Food insecurity affects many individuals, often creating barriers to academic success, mental health, and overall stability. By giving your time to the pantry, you help ensure that students have consistent access to nourishing food and a welcoming, judgment-free environment. At Columbia’s pantry locations at 50 Haven and Lerner Hall, volunteers have the opportunity to engage in a number of activities that directly support the fight against food insecurity on campus from restocking shelves and preparing orders to greeting clients and promoting pantry resources. Beyond meeting a basic need, this work fosters a sense of community, dignity, and mutual care on campus.

The Food Pantry at Columbia Volunteer Guidelines

  • Serve at least 25 hours per semester
  • Schedule shifts based on availability; consistency is expected
  • Track hours via the designated system
     
  • Attend one-time orientation before starting
  • Receive training on pantry operations, confidentiality, and safety
     
  • Be punctual and notify the Director of Volunteer Management of absences in advance
  • Three unexcused absences may lead to removal
  • Treat all clients with dignity and maintain a nonjudgmental, inclusive attitude
     
  • Welcome and assist clients
  • Sort donations, restock, manage inventory
  • Maintain cleanliness
     
  • Sign and uphold the confidentiality agreement
  • Never share client or volunteer personal information
  • Report any incidents or safety concerns immediately to Student Leaders of the Food Pantry and the Student Support Specialist within the Center for Student Success and Intervention 
  • Complete a brief end-of-semester reflection
  • Provide feedback to support ongoing improvement