Volunteer

MANNA is a designated essential service. Our volunteers are essential personnel.

The health and safety of our MANNA community is of the utmost importance. MANNA abides by all CDC and City of Philadelphia guidelines for safe operations.

  • You must be feeling healthy to volunteer.
  • Masks are currently recommended in the building. Volunteers may bring their own masks. We can provide masks to those who need. Please do not wear bandanas, gaiters, or masks with valves. Tightly-fitting cloth or paper masks are acceptable.
  • All deliveries are contactless to protect the health of our volunteers and clients.
  • In addition to our standard kitchen hygiene practices, we have added a number of hand sanitizer stations throughout the building.
  • We have a full-time facilities cleaner who sanitizes all high-touch surfaces in the building throughout the day.

Volunteer FAQ

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

All volunteers must be at least 14 old. If anyone is a minor (under 18 years of age) a parental consent form must be filled out prior to being allowed to volunteer in the MANNA kitchen. All minor volunteers MUST have a signed consent form or they will not be allowed to volunteer.

What will I do during my shift?

Volunteers work in the kitchen under the guidance of MANNA’s amazing chefs. You will work on supervised tasks that our chef’s assign such as chopping vegetables, packing meals, filling meal trays, baking, and any other tasks for the day.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, volunteer safety is a priority at MANNA and the Department of Health requires a dress code for MANNA’s kitchen. Volunteers are required to adhere to the following guidelines:

  • An approved face mask is recommended. Bandanas and masks with exhalation valves are not permitted.
  • No sleeveless shirts or tank tops
  • Must wear long pants (no shorts or skirts)
  • Must wear closed shoes (no open-toed shoes or sandals)
  • No jewelry is allowed in the kitchen (rings, bracelets, watches, dangling earrings)
  • Hats and/or head covering is required. Hairnets are provided, but you may bring your own baseball cap or hat to wear.
  • Disposable aprons and gloves will also be provided onsite
What are the volunteer hours?

Monday – Wednesday Kitchen Shifts:

  • 7am – 10am
  • 10am – 1pm
  • 1pm – 4pm
  • 5pm – 8pm

Thursday Kitchen Shifts:

  • 7am – 10am
  • 10am – 1pm
  • 1pm – 4pm

Friday Kitchen Shifts:

(Please note that our kitchen closes at 1pm on Fridays):

  • 7am – 10am
  • 10am – 1pm
Do I need to have cooking skills?

No, our MANNA chefs will show you exactly what you need to do. There are many non-cooking opportunities in our kitchen, such as packing sandwiches or packaging meals on the MANNA turnout line.

Where do I park?

Metered, zoned, and garage parking is available nearby. MANNA is also easily accessible from the following SEPTA bus routes: 7, 32, 33, 38, 43, 48, and 49.