VOLUNTEER GUIDELINES & RESOURCES

Everything you need to show up, cook, deliver, and make a difference is on this page.

OUR GUIDING
PRINCIPLES

SERVE WITH JOY

Everyone can be of service, and being of service is a good time. Mix these attitudes, be mindful of your boundaries, treat mutual aid like a practice, and discover a sustainable path toward social justice.

WE’RE ALL CONNECTED

Think about all the hands involved since this idea was born — hands that built spreadsheets, sprinkled seasonings, transported bags, and shared stories. People power is what makes this whole thing work. You are part of something much bigger than one meal.

SPREAD LOVE

We're all trying our best. A little compassion goes a long way. Cook and deliver as if you're making meals for a dear friend — a Home-y. This work is about more than food. Together, we're practicing deeply caring for one another.

GENERAL SAFETY

If you're feeling unwell, please don't volunteer that day. Your health and the health of the neighbors we serve comes first — always. Let us know as soon as possible at hmm@eayikes.org so we can find coverage for your shift. No explanation needed, no judgment. We got you!

TIPS FOR CHEFS

WHAT TO COOK

The ideal meal is nutrient-dense, filling, and as non-perishable as possible. A complete lunch includes: a main dish, a snack, a drink, and utensils (if needed).

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Meals are typically eaten 1-3 hours after pick up

  • There is no refrigeration between pickup and distribution, and no microwave access at drop-off locations

  • Vegetarian and non-dairy options are strongly preferred — they travel better and serve a wider range of dietary needs

  • Great protein sources: beans, chickpeas, lentils, edamame, nuts and nut butters, broccoli, chia seeds

  • Need recipe ideas? SuperCook lets you search recipes based on ingredients you already have at home!

HOW TO PACKAGE YOUR MEALS

  • Write (or print) the contents of your lunch on the outside of each bag — it makes your meal more accessible for neighbors with allergies or dietary restrictions

  • Have extra bag space? Consider adding a small helpful item like a first-aid supply, a postcard and stamp, or a handwritten note

  • Feel free to personalize — decorate the bags, write an encouraging message, make it feel like it came from a neighbor because it did

PANTRY

You can pick up FREE ingredients and packaging supplies at any of our satellite pantries. Book a 15-minute pickup slot in advance.

RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES (if purchasing on your own)

Note: These supplies are available free at our pantry locations.

TIPS FOR DRIVERS

BEFORE PICKUP DAY

  • Use the day before your shift to check in with your assigned chef. Confirm the pickup address, time, and how many meals to expect

ON PICKUP DAY

  • Send a heads-up text when you're on your way so your chef is ready for you

  • Arrive at the time provided by the Home-y Made Meals Operations team.

  • Be warm. You and your chef already have something in common: you're both showing up for the community. Take a moment to connect

  • Handle bags with care to avoid spills — meals are packaged for delivery but still need a steady hand

AT DROP OFF

  • Deliver to your assigned outreach site on time. Coalition partners are coordinating distribution around your arrival

  • If anything changes on the day (you're running late, car trouble, anything), contact us immediately at hmm@eayikes.org so we can coordinate

Drop-off locations are updated regularly. Our Home-y Made Meals Operations team will confirm your specific site assignment when you're booked.

TAX DEDUCTION FOR VOLUNTEER EXPENSES

Did you know your out-of-pocket volunteer expenses may be tax-deductible? If you purchase your own cooking supplies, ingredients, or use your car for delivery, you may be able to deduct those costs as a charitable contribution. Learn more about deducting your volunteer expenses.

We recommend consulting a tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.