Basic Start-up Tips

• Ensure you have reliable, appropriate transportation (mid-to-full sized car, truck, or SUV) with a few supplies:
  • Newspaper (to lay in vehicle when transporting produce)
  • Towels (to wipe up any spills)
  • Paper/Plastic bowls, plates, spoons, napkins, etc.
  • Soup pots
  • Serving spoons
  • Folding table, if not serving directly from vehicle
• If desiring to partner with a local non-profit, try contacting those with similar interests such as a food pantry, soup kitchen, or church and complete any required paperwork
• Designate an approved kitchen for food preparation
• Contact management of local food suppliers to inquire regarding their donation of any surplus produce, examples include:
  • Grocery stores
  • Health food stores
  • Farmer’s Markets
  • Farm Co-ops
  • Local farmers
  • Community gardens
  • Restaurants/Bakeries
  • Neighbors
• Find potential distribution locations, like local parks (basically any place where you can hold a picnic, but if you have a question contact your state’s ACLU chapter for further details)
• Ask if any community members, groups, or teenagers would like to be involved in helping to cook or serve the soup/produce
• Schedule days during week to pick-up, clean, and prepare produce
• Determine if the homeless in your community need anything additional that you or your group can provide, such as:
  • Clothing
  • Scarves
  • Coats
  • Blankets
  • Sleeping Bags
  • Personal care items
• Collect Bibles to distribute so they have access to spiritual food as well
• Pack vehicle with soup or other prepared foods, other food and care items, and distribution supplies
• Setup table at designated location with a sign letting people know free food is available to any who need it
• Be available to listen or give a hug upon request