The Free Food Market is an initiative by Arizona Kosher Pantry that brings our pantry services directly to neighborhoods where residents may face transportation barriers or other challenges preventing them from visiting our main pantry location. This monthly event is essentially a pantry on the go, stocked with a selection of fresh produce, non-perishable goods, and other essential items.

The Free Food Market sets up in different neighborhoods each month, creating a farmers market-style environment under tents. Alongside our food distribution, we partner with community organizations to offer additional free products and services. This approach ensures that we provide a holistic support system, addressing various needs within the community.

The Free Food Market occurs monthly at different sites throughout the Greater Phoenix area. For the latest schedule and locations, please check our website or follow us on social media. You can also call us at (602) 492-4989 for the most current information. We update our schedule regularly to ensure we reach as many communities as possible.

Our Free Food Market offers a variety of fresh produce, non-perishable goods, and other essential items. We aim to provide nutritious and culturally appropriate food to meet the diverse needs of our community. The specific items available can vary based on donations and seasonal availability, but we always strive to stock a wide range of products.

No documentation or proof of income is required to receive food from the Free Food Market. We believe in providing food with dignity and respect, ensuring that everyone who needs assistance can access it without unnecessary barriers. Just come as you are, and our friendly staff and volunteers will be there to help you with your needs.

To volunteer at the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry, you must be at least 16 years old. We welcome individuals, families, and groups from all backgrounds. Volunteers should be able to commit to their scheduled shifts and adhere to our guidelines to ensure a safe and productive environment. We also ask that volunteers come with a positive attitude, ready to work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff members. If you have specific skills or areas of interest, please let us know, as we strive to match volunteers with tasks that best utilize their talents. For younger volunteers, we offer family-friendly volunteer opportunities where children can participate under the supervision of a parent or guardian.

Signing up to volunteer is easy and straightforward. Complete the registration form with your contact information, availability, and any areas of interest or special skills you may have. Once you submit the form, our volunteer coordinator will review your information and contact you to discuss available opportunities that match your preferences. We also offer orientation sessions to familiarize new volunteers with our operations, policies, and the various tasks they might be performing. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity to ask questions and meet other volunteers. If you have any issues with the sign-up process or need additional information, you can reach out to us at The Pantry.

When volunteering, it’s important to wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, as some tasks can be physically demanding. Closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons. We recommend dressing in layers, as the temperature in our facility can vary. Additionally, bringing a reusable water bottle is a good idea to stay hydrated throughout your shift. For specific tasks, such as food handling or distribution, we may provide additional protective gear like gloves or aprons, and we will give you clear instructions on how to use them.

It’s also helpful to bring a positive attitude and a readiness to engage in various activities. Personal items like cell phones should be kept to a minimum to avoid distractions and ensure you can fully participate in the volunteer activities.

Absolutely! Group volunteering is a fantastic way to foster teamwork and camaraderie while making a significant impact in the community. Whether you’re part of a school, corporate team, religious organization, or community group, we have numerous opportunities for groups to get involved. Group activities might include large-scale sorting and packing events, assisting at food distribution sites, or helping with special events. To coordinate a group volunteer opportunity, please contact our volunteer coordinator on our Contact page with details about your group, such as the number of participants and preferred dates. We recommend reaching out well in advance to ensure we can accommodate your group and provide a meaningful experience for all members.

Volunteers at the Arizona Kosher Food Pantry engage in a variety of essential tasks that support our mission to provide nutritious food to those in need. Tasks may include sorting and packing food donations, which involves organizing food items into boxes based on dietary needs and family size. Distribution tasks involve handing out food directly to clients, ensuring they receive the items they need in a respectful and efficient manner. Volunteers might also assist with administrative duties, such as data entry, answering phones, or helping with fundraising efforts. Additionally, we often need help with special events, which can include setting up, running activities, or providing information to attendees. Each task is vital to our operation, and we strive to match volunteers with roles that align with their skills and interests to ensure a fulfilling experience.