Volunteering is not only a great help to us, it’s also incredibly rewarding for those who give their time.
Notice: Individual volunteer food sorting roles are very limited. We encourage individuals to consider the farm, and our special events as well as explore volunteer needs at your local food program. To find contact information for your local program please enter your postal code here.
The kind-hearted people who volunteer with the Ottawa Food Bank help us, in the most hands-on way possible, get our neighbours beyond hunger. Learn more about #OttawasBestVolunteers by reading our Volunteer Impact Report.
Individuals, students, and families looking to volunteer on a regular basis throughout the year must attend a Volunteer information Session (less than an hour in length). These sessions provide information on the Ottawa Food Bank, volunteer opportunities, and include a tour of our facility.
Corporate and community groups interested in booking a group food sorting shift at the Ottawa Food Bank or participating in our Community Harvest farming program should email Jo-Anne Turple (Manager, Volunteer Resources) for more information and to book a shift.
If you’re planning on volunteering with the Ottawa Food Bank, please take a moment to read our VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK.
If you have any questions, please email Jo-Anne.
PLEASE NOTE:
Group bookings for volunteer opportunities in our warehouse fill up well in advance. Please reach out to Jo-Anne to book your session.
Volunteer Job Descriptions
Sorting Food
Since we collect and distribute food to our 112 member agencies, we have to organize food based on what they require. That means a whole lot of sorting.
Ottawa Food Bank Special Events
One way we collect food and monetary donations is by holding special events with a number of different partners across the city.
Community Harvest Volunteers
Our Community Harvest farm is always in need of volunteers during the growing and harvest season as we continue to build the amount of fresh produce we provide to families in need.
If you’d like to volunteer for any of our member agencies, please contact them directly. Click below to find the member agency closest to you.
How you help
Take a look at how our amazing volunteers help change the lives of people in Ottawa by reading our Volunteer Impact Report. We would not be able to accomplish our mission if it weren’t for the amazing people who donate their time.
