Open Heart Kitchen Seeks Volunteers

LIVERMORE, CA — Open Heart Kitchen, a nonprofit that provides hundreds of thousands of free meals to people in need across the Tri-Valley, is seeking volunteers.

Volunteer opportunities are available Monday through Friday and are open to anyone who is at least 16 years old, vaccinated against COVID-19, has cleared a background check (if 18 or older), and is able to stand for long periods of time. Most shifts begin in the morning and end in the early afternoon.

One of Open Heart’s largest programs is its Senior Meal Program, which provides free, nutritious meals to seniors in a sit-down setting.

“The dream of a future where everyone in the Tri-Valley has undeniable access to nutritious foods may be a big one, but with the help of our volunteers we believe it is possible to achieve!” Volunteer Services Coordinator Hannah Arionus wrote Patch in an email.

Open Heart volunteers say they enjoy the community and camaraderie. “The two things I enjoy most about volunteering with OHK are the kind, dedicated volunteers I have met and getting to know the clients as we share a few words or smile when they receive their lunch,” one volunteer shared in an email.

“I enjoy seeing the camaraderie among the regular diners while we serve them their meals. It is gratifying to know Open Heart Kitchen provides a needed service to our senior community,” said another.

For more information and to apply to volunteer, visit openheartkitchen.org/volunteer. For any questions, email volunteerservices@openheartkitchen.org.