Details:

The mission of the Van Buren Center is to support and strengthen the community by addressing the needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. They provide a safe and healthy environment and assist individuals while they are resolving their housing crisis.

Join Besa and the Van Buren Shelter to help support families experiencing homelessness. As a volunteer, you'll work side-by-side with the YMCA kitchen staff to prepare and serve meals to those in shelter. Volunteers may also package meal kits for all Van Buren locations.

Volunteers are required to bring their own face masks and must be worn at all times. The kitchen is small, but we'll try our best to practice social distancing. Limited client interaction will take place during this volunteer event.

The health and safety of volunteers is a priority. If you are sick, over the age of 60, or have a chronic health condition, it is in your best interest to stay home. Click here for more information about COVID-19.

• 14 is the minimum age required and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

• Due to COVID, volunteers are required to submit a waiver, even if you have been to Van Buren previously. This waiver will be sent to you prior to the event.
• Due to COVID, volunteers must watch a short video about safe serving and cross-contamination before you arrive for your shift. Click HERE to watch now.

• Closed-toe shoes are required. Please wear comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting dirty.

• Please bring your photo ID.

• Parking is available in the surface lot in. Volunteers may only park in spots located in front of the building in the east lot. Parking permits will be given when you arrive.

• Please enter through the door next to the Loading Dock/Donation Drop-Off Area. Ring doorbell upon arrival.
• This event is ADA accessible. 
• Court-appointed volunteering: At this time, we can not accept court-appointed requests.

Van Buren Shelter could use the following donations to support the men, women, and families during their stay. If you’d like to donate any of these items, please bring them with you when you volunteer and notify your Besa Volunteer Leader.

• Bar Soap

• Men's and women's deodorant

• Shaving cream

• Lotion

Click here for more information about the Van Buren Shelter and the amazing work they do.