Adopt-A-Meal Program
Our Adopt a Meal Program offers a wonderful opportunity for community members like you to make a difference in the lives of our clients while fostering a sense of connection and nourishment. By participating in this program, you become an essential part of our mission to provide nutritious meals and engage with those experiencing homelessness or poverty in Bloomington, IL.
Location: You will have the privilege of joining us in the heart of our operation, the HSHM Kitchen, located at 303 East Oakland Avenue, Bloomington, IL. This bustling kitchen is where culinary magic happens, and where you will make a tangible impact on the lives of our clients.
What to Expect: As a volunteer in the Adopt a Meal Program, you'll have the opportunity to plan, prepare, and serve a meal to our clients. With guidance from our experienced HSHM kitchen staff, you'll collaborate on designing a menu that meets our clients' nutritional needs and preferences.
Once the menu is set, you'll take on the role of a culinary hero, purchasing the required food and bringing it to our kitchen. The meal preparation will take place in our well-equipped HSHM kitchen or a commercial kitchen, ensuring that you have all the necessary tools and facilities to create a delicious and satisfying experience.
Your culinary journey will involve various tasks, such as chopping and slicing fresh produce, meats, and breads. You'll get hands-on experience utilizing commercial ovens, stoves, grills, or fryers to bring the flavors to life. Don't worry, you'll have access to professional knives, utensils, and other essential equipment. As you work your culinary magic, you'll also take charge of stocking and organizing our storage areas to ensure efficiency.
Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is crucial in our kitchen. You'll be involved in wiping down shelves and counters, cleaning the dining area, tables, chairs, and self-serve areas. Sweeping and mopping the floors will keep the space tidy and safe for everyone. Additionally, you'll play a vital role in sanitizing equipment and washing dishes, pots, and pans using our commercial dishwasher and three-compartment sinks.
Dress Code: To maintain a professional and safe environment, we kindly request that you adhere to our dress code guidelines:
- Shorts should reach the knee for your comfort and safety.
- Leggings or spandex tights are not permitted during your volunteering session.
- Sleeves must be capped or longer, ensuring armpits are covered.
- For safety purposes, please wear shoes with hard soles. Sandals of any kind are not allowed.
- Keep your hair off your shoulders and away from your face. If you have long hair extending out of the hat or hairnet, please braid it. We will provide a hairnet for you.
- A clean apron will be provided for you to wear during your volunteering session.
- Handwashing is essential. Please follow the Health Department guidelines posted near the handwashing sink.
- To maintain a professional environment, please avoid saggy pants or exposing undergarments.
- Shirts or pants should cover your lower back and behind.
Qualifications: We welcome individuals who are 18 years of age or older to participate in our Adopt a Meal Program. To ensure a smooth process, we kindly ask you to have a volunteer application on file. Additionally, please note that group sizes should not exceed 6 individuals per session.
Time Commitment: Your dedication and commitment are deeply appreciated. Each volunteering session requires a 4-hour time commitment, allowing you to fully engage in the meal preparation and service.
Training and Support: We understand that you may have questions or may need assistance during your volunteering session. That's why our knowledgeable Food Services staff will be present, providing guidance and support whenever needed. They will gladly help you with any equipment-related inquiries or provide clarification on your tasks.
Benefits: Participating in the Adopt a Meal Program offers more than just providing a meal. It presents a unique opportunity for personal growth and learning. You'll gain new skills by working in a commercial kitchen, where you'll learn to prepare meals for large groups and develop valuable budgeting and grocery shopping skills for catering to a significant number of people. Moreover, your interactions with our clients while serving will offer firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.
Follow the steps below to adopt a meal with Home Sweet Home Ministries!
- Fill out a Volunteer Application.
- Follow the steps through our Volunteer Training.
- Fill out an Adopt-A-Meal Interest Form.
- A member of our team will be in touch!
- In the meantime, please feel free to share these training videos with your team!
Thank you for considering our Adopt a Meal Program at Home Sweet Home Ministries. Your involvement and dedication make a substantial impact on the lives of our clients, providing them with nourishment, support, and a sense of belonging. Together, we can make a difference, one meal at a time.