37,000 volunteer hours are served at Caritas every year.

Volunteers make the mission of Caritas possible. Sign up today to make an impact in the lives of thousands of Community Neighbors.

We offer a variety of ways for individuals and groups to donate their time, talents, and resources.  Volunteers can donate their time at our food pantry or our thrift store. 

Volunteer FAQs

What’s the dress code for volunteers?

For safety reasons, sleeveless shirts and open-toe shoes are not permitted. Remember, you’ll be on your feet, moving around, so please dress comfortably. Jeans, t-shirts and sneakers or work boots are perfect.

Can I sign up a group to volunteer?

Yes! We can accommodate groups up to 25 people. Larger groups need to be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance.

What kind of tasks can volunteers expect to do?

Typically, volunteers work in pantry and warehouse helping restock and process food for Community Neighbors. These tasks can include:

• Bagging fruits and vegetables
• Re-stocking shelves with fresh & non-perishable foods
• Re-stocking cooler with dairy & deli items
• Re-stocking bonus items
• Cart attendance – help retrieve empty baskets
• Bagging/separating supplies or donations for events
  • Ex – “Back to School”, Homeless Connect Coalition
• Helping mobilize items to be replenished in the pantry

Can kids volunteer?

Yes, kids and teens are able to volunteer with Caritas, though there are some additional guidelines. Teens 17 years and older can volunteer on their own. Youth under 17 must have a chaperone present.

For more information or to set up a time to volunteer, contact our Volunteer Coordinator.

Shemell Smith
Email: ssmith@caritas-waco.org
Phone: 254-753-4593 ext. 208

Additional Volunteer Opportunities

Mobile Food Pantry Distributions

Our partner, Central Texas Food Bank, hosts monthly drive-thru food distributions at the following locations in Waco:

• VA Clinic
• Living Faith Chapel
• Texas State Technical College
• To view the calendar and sign up, visit http://greaterwacoarea.cafb.volunteerhub.com/.
  Volunteers aged 15 and up only, with ages 15-17 requiring an adult chaperone. Distributions typically need 10 volunteers, groups are welcome.
  For more information, call the Central Texas Food Bank volunteer hotline at 512-684-2140 or email at volunteer@centraltexasfoodbank.org.

Volunteer Activities

• Load trunks and truck beds with food for our clients in the drive-thru
• Direct traffic