The winter food sort season is over. New food sorts will begin in late May. Hunger Task Force is currently taking reservations for large food sort groups of six or more beginning in late May—click here to sign up!

Note that groups of five people and fewer and individual volunteers are welcome to participate in food sorts without registering. A full list of food sort opportunities will be made available as we get closer to food sort season. If you have any questions about food sorting, please contact Marie Greenfield at (414) 238-6473 or email marie@hungertaskforce.org. Additionally, individual food sorters are welcome on a walk-up basis. However, to ensure the food sort has not been canceled, call Hunger Task Force the day of the sort at (414) 777-0483.

What is food sorting?
Hunger Task Force receives millions of pounds of food every year from generous folks in southeastern Wisconsin. But before emergency food pantries can receive this food to give to their hungry clients, it must first be sorted into nutritional categories.

Food sorters categorize non-perishable food items by nutritional type; check for expired, damaged or unlabeled food items; label, move and stack boxes; and make boxes using a tape gun. Because of the active nature of food sorting, all volunteers should be able to stand on their feet for long periods of time.

When could my group do a food sort?
Hunger Task Force hosts three-hour sessions for groups of 20-40 people who sort food at our facility between January and early March, and mid-May and September. The sorts can also be attended by individuals who have attended volunteer orientation.

Our food sorts are such popular volunteer destinations that groups must reserve a date months in advance. Food sorts are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis 5-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; and 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays.

Can I bring my kids?
All volunteers ages 12 and over are welcome; every five youth age 12-15 must be accompanied by an adult guardian.

Any special attire needed?
All food sorters must wear closed-toed shoes—NO SANDALS! Long hair should be safely tied back and jewelry should be left at home. Prepare to get dirty and feel good about it.

Request a food sort date for your group beginning in June 2008 by emailing Marie Greenfield, community relations manager, or calling (414) 238-6473.