By Calvin Foucault, Food Lifeline
If you’ve ever volunteered at Food Lifeline, you probably know that your work has helped a huge number of people across Western Washington who face food insecurity. What you might not know is that your joy, passion, and spirit bring a wave of positive energy to our organization.
When the pandemic began, we reduced the number of people in our volunteer sessions to keep everyone safe. This naturally meant that we hosted fewer volunteers in 2021 than we did in the years before Covid’s onset. But while our totals were down last year, we saw volunteers take their dedication to a higher level.
Let’s compare 2021 to 2019. In 2021, we had half as many total volunteers, yet twice as many volunteers who gave at least 20 hours of their time. That’s pretty amazing!
We also doubled the number of volunteers who stepped up to fill leadership roles in the sorting and repacking of food, and the setting up of volunteer sessions. Last year, our Shop the Dock had just one volunteer. Today, it’s grown to a team of eleven volunteers who independently oversee the inventory process of food and assist agencies with product selection.
During this time of uncertainty, pain, and even loss; our hard-working volunteers have remained steadfast and dedicated. This has made a huge impact on the lives of so many individuals and families within our community. We are so grateful for your tireless commitment and caring hearts. Thank you for masking up and showing up when we needed you the most. We look forward to continuing our important and necessary work in 2022.
If you are looking for something new in 2022, visit our site foodlifeline.org/volunteer or or give us a call at 206-545-6600! We would love for you to join us!