*COVID-19 Opportunities Update**
This policy update is in response to COVID-19 and our commitment to the safety and health of our staff, volunteers, and clients. CORA follows guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concerning COVID-19. Masks are no longer mandatory, but we ask you to please respect the choices of others, recognize that we work with very vulnerable populations, and do have tight indoor working spaces. In addition, we ask you to consider the following.
If a volunteer or staff member tests positive for COVID-19:
Quarantine for 10 days
Receive negative test result; and
Must be fever free for 24 hours (without medication); then
Return to CORA once completely symptom-free
If a volunteer or staff member is exposed to someone with COVID-19:
Quarantine for five days
Receive negative test result five days post-exposure; and
Must be fever free for 24 hours (even without medication); then
Return to CORA once completely symptom-free
CORA’s mission is tied to our community and our volunteers represent friends and neighbors helping each other in times of difficulty. Here are some of our current volunteer opportunities that help us fulfill our mission. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Admaira Roman at Admaira@corafoodpantry.org or 919-542-5020.
Please note, we have a minimum age requirement of 16 years old to volunteer at CORA.
Food Prep and Distribution – We are currently distributing food curbside, outside of the Pantry. We need help assembling items that families receive, including bags of produce and bakery items. We require face coverings to be worn by staff, volunteers, and neighbors at all times.
Client Intake – Detail-oriented volunteers are needed to record visits for returning families and to gather information from new families who come to the Pantry for the first time. We will train you to become familiar with our Pantry database, Link2Feed, but comfort with using a computer is necessary.
Choice Assistant – We set up tables outside to display unique produce items and other foods we do not typically store as a “staple item” in an effort to provide families with the agency to choose foods are familiar with and enjoy. This position allows for an opportunity to interact with families and gain their unique perspective through occasional surveys. The role may vary based on the weather and we will adjust the position to serve as a concierge role during the winter months when necessary.
If organization and a bit of a workout sound like a great way to spend the morning or afternoon, sorting and stocking is for you. There will be limited contact with others to receive food donations from grocery stores, farmers and other individuals’ donations. Volunteers accept donations, stock similar items together and maintain a clean and safe environment.
We need lots of helping hands to pack bags full of shelf-stable foods like soup, cereal, pasta, and canned vegetables. There are two available slots for this opportunity but you can also request to be in the bagging room by yourself.
Through the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, CORA has established relationships with select grocers to receive food that is close to its retail lifespan but is still in great condition and safe for families. Retail Recovery volunteers visit pre-determined grocery stores to pick up food and deliver the donation to CORA.
Do you have a nutrition background or a desire to create great tasting, healthy items on a budget? If so, we would love to meet you. This is a flexible position, with at-home assignments available.
CORA has a need for those with computer, customer service, or phone skills. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, we would love to introduce you to our list of projects.
CORA has its own garden that provides fresh produce to the Pantry. If you have a green thumb and enjoy working outdoors, this is the perfect role for you.
CORA hosts many community events throughout the year, and we are always looking for fresh faces and familiar ones to help us successfully provide a fantastic experience for the community. If you have occasional availability, or would like to experience CORA as a group or one time activity, this may be for you!
Please contact meredith@corafoodpantry.org for more details.
