Create a welcoming evening for families experiencing homelessness
Meal & Hospitality Volunteers help provide a warm, reliable dinner and a sense of community for families staying at our Mt. Hope shelter. Each evening includes up to 24 individuals, with at least half being children and teens, so volunteers play a meaningful role in creating a calm, friendly space at the end of the day.
This is a great opportunity for individuals, pairs, friend groups, families, and small service teams.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare or purchase a meal that includes a main dish and a side (dessert optional)
- Plan for up to 24 people (depending on how many are in the shelter), keeping in mind that many are youth
- Arrive between 5:30–5:45 p.m.
- Set up dinner buffet‑style
- Eat with families and offer light hospitality (conversation, card games, interacting with kids in common areas)
- Help with basic clean‑up before leaving around 7:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Meals do not need to be fancy — simple, kid‑friendly, and comforting is perfect.
When You’re Needed
- Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
- 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
- Sign up for a specific date that works for you ( we will provide potential dates during training and orientation)
- Up to 4 volunteers per shift — bring a friend or two if you’d like
Who Can Volunteer
- Adults 18+
- Youth may volunteer with a parent or guardian
- Great for small groups, families, faith communities, and service clubs
- No stairs or heavy lifting required
Requirements
- Background screening (completed through Family Promise)
- Approximately 2 hours of online training
- On‑site orientation at Mt. Hope before your first shift
Why This Role Matters
Sharing a meal is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to build community. Volunteers help families feel welcomed, supported, and seen — and often find that the conversations around the dinner table are the most meaningful part of the experience.
How to Sign Up
- Sign up directly through this volunteer platform
or - Email operations@lawrencefamilypromise.org to request a date
