Volunteer Opportunities

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Position Summary

Volunteers play an important role in supporting The Salvation Army’s mission of serving individuals and families in need throughout St. Catharines and the surrounding community. Volunteers may assist in the Food Bank, Food Truck Outreach, Warehouse, meal programs, and English Conversation Café for newcomer and immigrant women.

Key Responsibilities

• Food Bank
• Assist with sorting, checking, organizing, packing, and distributing food donations.
• Help prepare food hampers and grocery orders for individuals and families.
• Assist with breakfast, lunch, snacks, and other meal programs.
• Welcome and assist clients with kindness, dignity, and respect.
• Help keep food preparation and client areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Food Truck Outreach
• Help prepare and pack hot meals and food supplies for the Salvation Army Food Truck.
• Assist with loading and unloading food, beverages, hygiene supplies, and other outreach items.
• Serve hot meals and refreshments to people experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, and other vulnerabilities.
• Engage respectfully with individuals during outreach by offering conversation, encouragement, and practical support.
• Assist with cleaning and organizing the food truck and kitchen supplies.
• Warehouse
• Sort and organize incoming food and donated items.
• Check food for quality, expiration dates, and proper storage.
• Maintain an organized and safe warehouse environment.
• Help move, pack, and prepare donations for distribution to the Food Bank and community programs.
• English Conversation Café
• Support English conversation activities for newcomer and immigrant women.
• Help participants practice everyday English through friendly conversation and group activities.
• Encourage participants to build confidence in speaking English and connecting with others.
• Assist with preparing refreshments and maintaining a welcoming environment.
• Meal & Community Outreach
• Assist with preparing, serving, and distributing meals to people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.
• Help provide water, snacks, hygiene supplies, and other essential items when available.
• Offer a welcoming presence and treat every individual with compassion, dignity, and respect.
• Support the Salvation Army in creating a safe and encouraging environment for everyone who accesses our services.

Qualifications & Skills

Compassionate, respectful, and willing to work with people from diverse backgrounds.

Dependable, responsible, and able to work as part of a team.

Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Willingness to follow food safety, health, safety, and confidentiality guidelines.

Previous experience is an asset but not required; training and orientation will be provided where needed.

Physical Requirements

Depending on the volunteer assignment, duties may include standing for extended periods, lifting and carrying food boxes or donations, bending, sorting, packing, and assisting with loading or unloading supplies.

“Here am I. Send me!” – Isaiah 6:8