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Guide
The front of Houston Food Bank's main warehouse with its green apple wall4Stage 4 of 6

Arrive

Check in, store your things and get ready to start.
Start lesson

What your first shift looks like

Our suggestion
  1. 15 min before

    Park and walk in

    Follow the yellow arrows to the main entrance.

  2. 10 min before

    Check in

    Welcome Desk in the Lobby. Store your things in a free locker.

  3. Start

    Orientation

    Staff give a short talk, then take you to your project.

  4. During

    Your project

    Sort, pack or bag food. Phone away, ask staff anything.

  5. Last few minutes

    Cleanup

    Everyone helps get the area ready for the next group.

Check in

Head to the Welcome Desk in the Lobby.

  • Registered online? Check in with a team member at the Welcome Desk.
  • Didn't register? Sign the waiver to the left of the Welcome Desk.
  • You don't need to sign out when you leave.
Source · Checked Oct 4, 2026

Proof of hours

Need proof of your hours for school or work? Hand your form to the Welcome Desk before your shift starts.

Source · Checked Oct 4, 2026

Lockers

Free lockers are behind the blue wall. If a locker gives you trouble, ask at the Welcome Desk.

Source · Checked Oct 4, 2026

While you wait

Visit the Advocacy Corner to learn about volunteers' impact, or grab a snack or drink at the Texans Cafe or Starbucks counter. Finish eating before your shift begins.

Source · Checked Oct 4, 2026

Orientation

When the shift begins, staff give a short orientation, then take everyone to their project areas.

Source · Checked Oct 4, 2026

Running late?

Call Volunteer Services as soon as you know. If you arrive more than 30 minutes late, you may be asked to reschedule.

Source · Checked Oct 4, 2026

Rules can change. Your confirmation message and Houston Food Bank staff have the final word.

First Shift is a student prototype made for Houston Food Bank's review. It is not an official Houston Food Bank app. For official information, visit houstonfoodbank.org/volunteer.