Food shelf visits in Minnesota have surged to record levels.
This dramatic increase reflects the growing strain on households as food costs
remain high and critical safety-net programs face uncertainty. In recent years,
as changes and challenges to SNAP benefits and other federal supports
were debated and implemented, food shelves experienced ripple effects, with an
even greater number of neighbors turning to charitable food assistance to
fill widening gaps.Small Group Volunteer Opportunity: Food
Shelf Friday
Location: PRISM, 1220 Zane Avenue North, Golden Valley, MN, 55422
When: Fridays during the summer; select Fridays throughout the school
year
Shift Available: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm | Supervisedby:Logistics
Staff and Volunteer Manager
Groups of up to 6 volunteers maximum
About PRISM
PRISM (People Responding In Social Ministry) is a nonprofit social service agency providing food, housing assistance, clothing, case management, and children’s programs to individuals and families in need.
Our mission is to connect people in our community to the resources they need to build healthy, stable lives.
Core Values: Collaboration • Innovation • Dignity • Accountability
PRISM is best known for our Marketplace Food Shelf, which serves 120–150+ families daily—no appointment or zip code restrictions required. This work is powered by community generosity and volunteers.
About Food Shelf Friday
Food Shelf Friday is a structured, high-impact volunteer opportunity designed for small groups seeking a meaningful way to support community food access. This shift directly supports PRISM’s Marketplace Food Shelf operations during a key service window.
During the school year, this role is fulfilled by student groups. When school is not in session, including summer and designated no-school days, this opportunity is available to corporate teams, professional groups, and community partners.
Key Responsibilities
Food Shelf Friday volunteers support essential closing and reset tasks to ensure the Food Shelf remains clean, organized, and ready for the following week.
Responsibilities may include:
- Removing trash, compost, recycling, and cardboard; ensuring proper disposal
- Sorting and disposing of spoiled or unsalvageable perishable items by category
- Restocking shelf-stable items to maintain consistent inventory levels
- Cleaning shared spaces, including sweeping and mopping warehouse, food shelf, and freezer areas
- Wiping down and maintaining carts, checkout areas, and work surfaces
- Sorting and Prioritizing Bread Inventory for next week
- Supporting overall organization and readiness of the Food Shelf environment
Interested in this small group volunteer opportunity? Contact Liam Boris at volunteer@prismmpls.org to get started!
