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. Staff will communicate the exact number of individuals and ages.
- 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
