Volunteer Title:Emmanuel House – Kitchen Help – Evening Shift

Reports To:Emmanuel House Director & Front Desk Staff

Schedule: Monday thru FridayEvening Shift (4PM - 6PM) / [1 volunteer needed]

Position Overview:The Emmanuel House men’s shelter offers dinner six days a week (Monday through Saturday). Providing these meals is essential for many homeless and low-income individuals, especially considering rising food costs and the lingering effects of COVID-19.

The Kitchen Volunteer Helper, you will play a crucial role in supporting the shelter’s daily operations. This position includes assisting staff, preparing food, engaging with residents, and helping to create a welcoming and safe environment for those in need.

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation:

• Assist in preparing meals under the supervision of the Kitchen Manager or Head Cook, including chopping, cooking, and organizing ingredients.

• Ensure food safety and sanitation standards are maintained in the kitchen.

Meal Service:

• Help serve meals to residents, ensuring that dietary needs and preferences are accommodated.

• Clean and organize the dining area before and after meals.

Kitchen Maintenance:

• Assist in washing dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment.

• Help keep the kitchen clean and organized, including sweeping, mopping, and taking out the trash.

Shelter Support:

• Assist with general shelter operations, including checking in residents and providing information about services.

• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all residents.

Community Engagement:

• Build positive relationships with residents, offering support and encouragement as needed.

• Participate in organizing activities or events that promote community and engagement within the shelter.

Qualifications:

• Basic knowledge of food preparation and safety practices.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a compassionate approach to working with unhoused individuals in need.

• Ability to work as part of a team and take direction from supervisors.

• Physical ability to lift and carry kitchen supplies and equipment up to 25 LBS as needed.

Working Conditions

May be required to stand or sit for extended periods of time (up to 3 hours).

Please be aware this role requires indoor activity and is in a sober environment. Strictly enforced!

Appropriate Attire: Please wear closed-toe shoes (not sandals, heels, flipflops). Shirts should be short or long-sleeved (no spaghetti straps, strapless, sleeveless, mid-riff showing or tank top types). Shorts/dresses/skirts should be longer in length, appropriate for comfortably bending and reaching items. Inside kitchen: must wear hair net, gloves (we provide.)

Required:

• Age Requirements: 18 or older. You must be confirmed to participate. No walk-ins.

• Sign up to volunteer through this site.

• Connect with volunteer coordinator to discuss interest & next steps in onboarding process.

• Volunteers interested in committing over 40 hours a year must complete a Background Check to serve. No Exceptions.

• ID Required to confirm identification when completing onboarding volunteer paperwork.

If you have any question related to this role, feel free to reach out to Estefani Gomez Pacheco, The Salvation Army Volunteer & Protecting The Mission Coordinator at [email protected] or (408)282-1165 Ext 3218

Pick a Shift!