Community Pantry Assistant Volunteer

About Surrey Place

Surrey Place is a not-for-profit organization that helps people of all ages with autism- development and sensory-related concerns push the boundaries of what’s possible to achieve new victories. With a holistic circle of care approach, Surrey Place brings together caring clinicians, staff, valued partners and other experts to collaborate for the client’s best interests. The organization works with clients throughout their lives, creating inventive and innovative programs so they can keep building their skills, grow their self-confidence and make their sight even higher. Since 1962, Surrey Place has supported people with varied and complex needs in the Toronto region and more recently, Northwestern Ontario. Surrey Place is accredited with Exemplary Standing by Accreditation Canada through the healthcare program.

Position Description

The Community Pantry at Surrey Place provides free food and essential items for anyone in need, with no questions asked. Operating under the Wellness Program, the Pantry is supported by a committee of staff volunteers from across the agency. We are now seeking external volunteers to help keep the Pantry stocked, organized, and welcoming for all visitors to our downtown location.

Volunteers assist clients and families during a two-hour weekly shift.

This is a daytime commitment aligned with the Pantry’s working hours:

• Tuesdays: 2:00 PM–4:00 PM EST
• Wednesdays: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM / 4:00 PM –6:00 PM EST
• Thursdays: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM EST

A minimum commitment of 3 to 6 months is required.

As a Community Pantry Assistant Volunteer, you will play a key role in maintaining a warm and supportive environment. Responsibilities include opening and closing the Pantry, keeping shelves well-stocked and organized, and creating a respectful and inclusive space for all visitors

Main Responsibilities

• Restock shelves and ensure items are neatly arranged
• Sorting and checking food donations for expiration dates and quality
• Assist visitors in finding what they need and answer basic questions
• Maintain a clean and organized pantry
• Help with donation intake and inventory tracking
• Promote a welcoming and inclusive environment
• Follow health and safety guidelines for food handling

Qualifications

• Friendly and compassionate individuals who want to support their community
• Reliable and able to commit to at least two shifts per month
• Able to lift light to moderate loads, including some bending and lifting
• Comfortable interacting with diverse community members
• Access to a vehicle is an asset but not required
• Willing to commit to this role for a minimum of 3–6 months
• Must be able to travel to the Surrey Place downtown location
• Must be willing to undergo a vulnerable sector check as part of the volunteer onboarding process

Why Volunteer with Surrey Place?

• Make a direct impact in fighting food insecurity
• Connect with your community and meet new people
• Practice customer service skills and verbal communication in English
• Gain experience in the disability and healthcare sectors
• Opportunities for mentorship

Surrey Place values the diverse and intersectional identities of its staff, clients and families and regards equity and neurodiversity as fundamental at all levels of our organization. We are seeking applicants who embrace our values of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA). We encourage candidates from Indigenous and equity seeking groups such as those from Black and racialized communities, people with disabilities, women and 2SLGBTQ+.