Organization Description

Mission: MANNA is a standalone nonprofit, serving over 1,500 meals per week between St. John’s kitchen and Edwards Church. Our efforts to provide high-quality food to our hungry neighbors has created a remarkable community. The guests who are welcomed at MANNA come from varied backgrounds, but they are simply our neighbors. We are here to help anyone who suffers from food insecurity in any way. Our volunteers are an essential part of this community as well. Local college and high school students, retirees, and others show up weekly to chop, serve, and offer friendship and a smile to all who attend. MANNA’s mission is to help others become familiar with the inner workings of a community kitchen, become aware of how food insecurity hides in plain sight for many people in our community, and understand how food delivered with quality and respect can break down barriers and create an atmosphere of genuine community.

Goals: MANNA is a place where one can access a variety of things that the privileged among us may not notice as luxuries, such as food, showers, laundry, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a comfy seat to relax. So many of our friends that are experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity are currently living without these things, and it is our goal is to make those everyday necessities accessible to our guests and create a space where people feel comfortable asking for what they need.

Placement Description

  • Food Volunteer: Work to serve food to guests in our community kitchen and community center at any of the following shifts: 
    • Monday, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM (St. John’s Church, 48 Elm St, Northampton)
    • Tuesday, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM (St. John’s Church, 48 Elm St, Northampton)
    • Wednesday, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (St. John’s Church, 48 Elm St, Northampton)
    • Thursday, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM (St. John’s Church, 48 Elm St, Northampton)
    • Friday, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Edwards Church, 297 Main St, Northampton)
    • Saturday, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM (Edwards Church, 297 Main St, Northampton)
    • Monday through Thursday and Saturday 9am – 3pm (Closing for lunch 11:30-12:30) at the Community Center 
  • Skills:
    • Interpersonal skills
    • Flexibility
    • Comfortable with guests 
  • Training: Training in basic familiarity with kitchen skills will be offered. Additional training is provided for any volunteer who feels in need of more instruction.

Time Commitment

No minimum but shift are generally 3 hours. 

How to Get Involved

To become a volunteer, go to https://mannanorthampton.org/volunteering/.

Contact Information 

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