Where will I serve? An office and food pantry located next to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Downtown Syracuse.

Who will I serve? Individuals in acute need of shelter, food or social services.

What will I do? You will be responsible for assisting in the operation of an emergency services and practical assistance office, a hospitality center for people who are homeless, and a food pantry.

What will my day look like?

• Interview clients at the Downtown Emergency Assistance Services office, assessing immediate needs and making referrals as appropriate.
• Assist in the operation of the Hospitality Center for people who are homeless, including providing fellowship, addressing acute needs, and making referrals as appropriate.
• Provide immediate assistance (food, clothing, etc.) as available.
• Assist clients in the application process for public benefits such as Food Stamps, Public Assistance, Child Health Plus, etc.
• Assist in the general operation of the food pantry, including purchasing, stocking, and preparing orders.
• Work with Emergency Shelters to assess client needs for furniture and household goods.
• Solicit furniture and household goods from individuals, churches, organizations, and stores.
• Schedule daily pickups of donations and deliveries to clients.
• Assist with pickups and deliveries.
• Follow up with clients leaving the shelter to assess ongoing needs.
• Accompany home visits to clients as necessary.
• Prepare program paperwork and/or complete data entry as required by the program.
• Participate in program and department staff meetings and training as necessary.
• Based on volunteer interest and availability, potentially assist with Catholic Charities’ Elderly Services and/or Relocation Assistance.
• Other program-related activities.

What gifts and talents will I bring and grow in? An interest in social work, community organizing, health and nutrition. Organization. Ability to be goal-oriented. Ability to work well with a diverse group of clients and volunteers. Ability to work well as a team.