+ I have a limited ability or a chronic health aliment, but I would love to volunteer. Can I?

Yes! We welcome all members of our community to join in on our food rescue activities and we'll find a spot for you! If you are comfortable with sharing, please let your SVFR leader know about any limitations or concerns that you have so that we can be mindful during food rescue activities and to make sure you have an enjoyable and successful time volunteering.

+ What are the benefits of volunteering with SVFR?

Volunteers play a vital role in reducing hunger in Cortland County and greenhouse gases by helping surplus food be diverted away from landfills and toward people facing food insecurity. We’re in need of “all hands on deck” to help make Cortland a healthier place to work, live, and play. Also, volunteering has been noted to be a depression- and stress-busting activity as well as one that helps you feel more connected to your community and can increase your physical activity.

+ How much time will I be expected to commit?

When you sign up to volunteer, you will be asked about your availability and how often you can volunteer. You can elect to fill a shift(s) as they become available. Volunteer shifts are usually between 30 and 90 minutes in length.

+ Do I need a vehicle to volunteer?

Most of our food rescue shifts do require a vehicle to help transport rescued food. As we grow, we hope to have more volunteer opportunities that do not require personal wheels. For those shifts that do not require a vehicle, we will make a note on the shift calendar that a vehicle is not required. Volunteers will still have the responsibility of getting to and from the volunteer site if the shift requires such.

+ I have children or grandchildren, can they volunteer with me?

Yes! We love having family members volunteer together. We just ask to make sure the shift you volunteer for is age-appropriate and that you have signed a waiver for each underage volunteer. Please note, volunteers over the age of 18 do not need a parent or guardian to sign off on their waiver.

+ I am differently-abled or have a limitation but I still want to help? Can I?

You sure can! We welcome all types of abilities and we work hard to make sure accessibility and safety are our top priorities. If you feel comfortable, when you fill out your volunteer waiver, please mention any limitations or medical issues you may have. If you check “yes” on your waiver, a SVFR leader will then contact you to talk about how best to help you serve others and make your volunteering time with SVFR a success for you.

+ Can I donated food as an individual?

Yes! Currently, we accept fresh food from backyard gardeners, farmers, food processors, restaurants and grocers.

If you hire a licensed caterer for your event and have surplus food that has not been served and has been kept at the proper temperature, the caterer can participate in community food rescue by contacting us.