Volunteers are needed immediately at The Open Door to help support the Eagan Pantry and the Mobile Pantry’s growing “Retail Rescue” efforts. Winter months always present a challenge due to ‘snowbird’ volunteers who travel south to escape the cold, but complicating things this year is an increased opportunity to rescue more food from retail stores facing excess inventories. “We run the risk of wasting food that could be going to the families we serve every day,” said Executive Director Jason Viana. “A great deal of our fresh food comes through this program, and right now we don’t have enough volunteers to meet the demand.”
Using The Open Door vehicles (or your own if you prefer), Retail Rescue Drivers travel mornings to local grocery stores to pick up food donations and bring to TOD’s Eagan Pantry or Apple Valley Center. No special license is needed, only a willingness to wake up early, and the ability to lift 40+ pounds.
Other immediate volunteer openings include: Retail Rescue food sorting and stocking, Mobile Pantry Drivers, and volunteers to help clients “shop” and schedule appointments. Interested volunteers should sign up for a 45-minute volunteer orientation via www.theopendoorpan.wpengine.com or contact Deanna Baisch at 651.368.1315 or deannab@theopendoorpantry.org for more information
I’m interested in volunteering for the retail rescue program thanks for letting me be a part of your team
Hi Stacey, This is great to hear! I am forwarding your info to our Mobile Pantry and Operations leads. They will get a hold of you shortly!