April is Volunteer Appreciation Month and we’re proud to shout out our dedicated volunteers, whose generous giving of time and energy help our neighbors access nutritious food.
In 2023, Gleaners distributed an astonishing 48 million meals across 21 counties. As many neighbors struggle to make ends meet after the expiration of pandemic-era benefits and amid rising inflation and rent costs, volunteers continue stepping up to fill a critical need.
Every volunteer counts. Just one hour of service helps distribute 233 meals to our neighbors. Volunteer contribution at Gleaners is so tremendous, we would need to hire 34 full-time employees to match their impact!
Regular volunteer Cat Cleary has volunteered at Gleaners on-site drive-thru food pantry since 2020 and has seen Gleaners’ volunteer work firsthand.
“Over the past 4 years, I have encountered countless volunteers and staff members who truly care about this community and have helped instill a passion for this work. The neighbors we serve each week are struggling to afford basic necessities and the growing cost of living. How wonderful that we can help make that a little easier for our neighbors each week,” Cleary said.
From regulars to corporate groups, our volunteers are making a difference.
“I think what resonates with me the most is their heartfelt desire to be here, to be at Gleaners and to be in service of others. It’s such a joy to watch volunteers find their place within the organization,” said Treva Burgess, who is the Manager of Volunteer Engagement at Gleaners.
Interested in volunteering at Gleaners? We’d love to have you!