YMCA of the Northern Sky
Make a difference this summer—help us feed kids across North Dakota and Minnesota! We're looking for helping hands to support our Rural Meal Program, which provides free, nutritious weekly meal packs to children across rural communities in North Dakota and Minnesota. Each week, children receive 7 breakfasts and 7 lunches—ready to eat at home. As a Meal Bagging Volunteer, you’ll help us prepare these important meals for delivery. Your tasks may include: -Assembling and bagging breakfasts and lunches -Organizing and labeling meal bags for distribution routes -Working as part of a team in a fast-paced but fun environment Why it matters: Access to food can be challenging in rural areas. Your time helps ensure that no child goes hungry during the summer months when school meals aren’t available. Sign up to volunteer and help fuel summer fun, learning, and growth for hundreds of kids!
1. Ensure consistent access to nutritious meals for children in rural communities. Provide weekly meal bags containing 7 breakfasts and 7 lunches to children up to age 18, helping to fill the gap when school is out for summer. 2. Reach underserved areas with limited access to summer food programs. Deliver meals to multiple rural locations across North Dakota and Minnesota, reducing food insecurity in areas where resources are scarce. 3. Support healthy growth and development during the summer months. Offer meals that meet USDA nutrition standards to promote the physical and cognitive well-being of children. 4. Reduce barriers to food access. Make meals available at no cost, with no registration or income requirements, and allow adults to pick up meals for children with prior approval. 5. Engage communities and volunteers in the fight against hunger. Provide meaningful volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, and groups to help bag and distribute meals, building community support around youth nutrition. 6. Promote equity and dignity in food access. Ensure that all children—regardless of background, location, or income—can access healthy meals in a respectful and inclusive way.
Katie Anderson Food Program Director 218.359.2322 anderson@ymcanorthernsky.org
Volunteer Safety Guidelines To ensure a safe and smooth experience for all volunteers and to maintain the quality of our meals, please review the following safety information: Food Safety & Hygiene -Wash hands thoroughly before beginning your shift and after any break. -Gloves will be provided and must be worn when handling any unpackaged food items. -Long hair must be tied back, and closed-toe shoes are required. -Do not volunteer if you are feeling ill or have had any symptoms of illness (fever, coughing, stomach issues) within the last 24 hours. Lifting & Movement -Some tasks may involve light lifting (up to 25 lbs) or standing for extended periods. -If you need accommodations or have limitations, let us know—we’re happy to assign roles that work for your comfort and safety. General Expectations -Follow all instructions given by YMCA staff or site supervisors. -Be respectful of others and help maintain a clean, organized workspace. -Keep personal belongings (bags, phones, food/drinks) out of the food prep areas. Youth Volunteers -Volunteers under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. -All youth volunteers will be assigned age-appropriate tasks and must follow safety guidelines. Your health and the health of the families we serve are our top priority. Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone!
Please let us know 24 hrs or more prior if you are unable to join us for volunteering.
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