WHAT IS RUBY'S PANTRY?

Ruby’s Pantry is a ministry of caring and giving that encourages faith, exemplifies friendship, and provides nourishing food for anyone who needs to extend their grocery budget. For a $25 donation, people receive food to enjoy. All of this is done without regard to income or residency.

HOW DOES RUBY'S PANTRY DO THIS?

Ruby's Pantry partners with food producers and suppliers to gather their surplus. Then, the food is gathered, sorted, and delivered to pop-up locations throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. Volunteers at the pop-up locations distribute the food.

HOW CAN I HELP?

One way to help is to volunteer every second Saturday of the month here at Holy Cross.

There are a variety of jobs. For example, you might help with the set-up, package bundles, load the bundles into cars, direct traffic, clean up after the distribution. All jobs require closed-toed shoes. Some jobs require lifting 25 lbs. However, YOU determine what job assignments are within your physical capabilities.

Children ages 6-11 should be accompanied by an adult.

HOW DO I VOLUNTEER?

There are two steps. You only need to complete step 1 once.

1. Complete a one-time application now with Ruby's Pantry to volunteer.
   APPLY
   Or, you may apply on the day of the pop-up at Holy Cross.


2. Sign up to volunteer at the pop-up at Holy Cross.
   VOLUNTEER

FOOD SAFETY

We are committed to handle food donations safely through practices that focus on food safety and quality. We take steps to prevent foodborne illness when handling food donations.

• Food Safety is About Keeping Other People Safe
  • Everyone carries illnesses they are immune to. Others may not be immune to those same illnesses so getting exposed to yours will make them sick.
  • It is imperative that we keep from spreading illnesses and viruses as much as possible.
• Follow these procedures to keep everyone safe.
  • Wash your hands before handling any food that is out of its original packaging. This is recommended for potatoes and fresh produce that is not packaged. We recommend that these items be placed in plastic bags for distribution.
  • Put on gloves after washing your hands.
    If the gloves touch anything other than food such as a box, cup, clothing or hair, you must put on a new pair of gloves.
  • Long hair should be tied back when working at the food distribution station.
  • Closed-toed shoes must be worn at all times during food repackaging and working in the food distribution area.
  • Keep an eye out for other volunteers who may have strings hanging from their clothing or long hair that needs to be tied back.

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