Volunteer Covenant

Each volunteer must agree to the following rules by signing a covenant before we allow them to serve.

Our purpose is to show the love of Christ by feeding the hungry in our community.

In John 21: 15-17, Jesus says to Peter “If you love me feed my sheep”

In order to facilitate the unity and effectiveness of this effort, please observe the following guidelines.

Pray. Your prayers are vital and instrumental in the success of our program.

Show the love of Christ at all times. There will be times when you will be tempted to judge or be critical. At all times choose to be loving and kind.

Always treat those we serve with respect. Remember: we don’t have clients; we have friends. Everyone needs to be treated with dignity. Love your neighbor as you love yourself (Matthew 22:29). Treat them as you would like to be treated.

The only criteria to help the hungry, is that they say that they are in need and meet accepted maximum income guidelines. We will not put any further conditions on them. We will not turn anyone away who meets the financial guidelines.

Arrive on time. Our set-up time is busy and important. Arriving late is hard on other volunteers and can delay the serving of food. When a family hasn’t had anything to eat for a while they need to know that we will be present and ready on time.

If unable to show up for your designated time, please give as much advance notice as possible so that a replacement can be found.

Do not show up to work if you have taken drugs (including medical marijuana), have abused medication or have been drinking alcohol within the last 24 hours.

The food is for people in need. It is not for personal use. If your household is in need you may sign up and go through the line, receiving food in the same way as our other friends. You may not reserve specific items for yourself or others.

Do not eat in the distribution area. Our friends are hungry and need to know the food meant for them is not being misused. Food gifts brought by our friends may be eaten after distribution time.

We require that volunteers who work directly with friends (i.e. praying, intake) receive FMS-specific training. This is offered as needed.

When you volunteer we will provide you a form to say that you agree with these rules.

Client Policies

  1. This is a private Non-Government Organization. We do not discriminate against anyone regardless of age, gender, faith, or ethnicity.

    It is our privilege to serve you. It is our gift to you and to the community.
    Please understand that it is a gift, it is not your right.

    WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE TO ANYONE

  2. Please be courteous. We do not tolerate rudeness and yelling.

  3. Identification is required for all members of the household of any age.
        (we accept: School, State or Federal ID; Health Insurance Cards; Birth Records)

  4. Income information is required for all working-age members. Income must be verified by bank statement within 7 days of sign-up or renewal.

  5. A note with signature is required to pick up food for other households. The first and last name of both parties must be legible.

  6. We distribute to locations island wide. You are welcome to receive food once a week at one of our distribution sites (see reverse).

  7. We distribute food only during pre-set distribution hours. Not before. Not after. Please be patient. Wait for your turn when we open.

  8. Do not arrive before scheduled times.

  9. If you are not standing in your place in line, you are not in line! IF YOU LEAVE YOUR PLACE, YOU’VE LOST YOUR SPACE. Go to the end of the line!

  10. Quantities offered at the time you are served are final. You may not exchange or return through the line after you have been served.

  11. Follow all verbal or written instructions. Taking food contrary to staff or volunteer instruction or approval is considered theft.

  12. Smoking is Not Allowed within 20 feet of any portion of the food distribution area, or other person in line for food.

  13. Dogs must be always controlled and on a leash. Owners and their pets will be asked to leave if the animal creates unsafe conditions. Unsafe conditions are as determined by FMS staff and volunteers.

  14. If you have complaints, fill out a grievance form.

  15. We reserve the right to change/update these rules. Updated: 03.05.2025