Meal Provider Information

365 days a year Simpson Housing’s emergency shelter hosts volunteer groups who plan, purchase, prepare, and serve meals for shelter guests. This is a great opportunity to learn a bit more about the shelter and homelessness in Minneapolis, get to know Simpson Housing, and have fun making a healthy meal with friends, coworkers, or family!

Meal Logistics Quick Reference 

  Breakfast Meal  Lunch Meal  Evening Meal 
Serving Time  8 AM Noon 7 PM
Recommended number of volunteers  5-8 5-8 6-10
Number of Servings 30 servings 45 servings 60 Servings

COVID-19 Guidelines and Expectations

During the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers must:

  • Be fully vaccinated with recommended boosters.
  • Conduct a self-assessment for symptoms of illness before arriving at the shelter.
  • Wear a tight-fitting mask over their nose and mouth. Volunteers may also choose to wear extra protection, like a face shield or goggles.
  • Sign in and out using the computer in the shelter kitchen.
  • Expect change. Please be aware that we are in a time of transition and expectations and protocols will be updated frequently as we continue through the pandemic.

What should we serve?

The ideal meal is healthy, low in sodium and fat, and high in fresh fruits and vegetables. Click here to download menu ideas and recipes, or adapt your favorite recipes for larger portions. Simpson provides all the cooking utensils, plates, etc, you and your group provide the food and the people power to create and serve the meal. We have a fully stocked kitchen with everything you need to cook a meal, all you need to bring is the food!

What about lunch?

A healthy, hearty lunch is important, but a lot of volunteers have a hard time hitting the shelter kitchen midday. If that’s the case for you, you can try our new Cold Lunch Dash opportunity, which lets you and your team prepare a high-quality, ready-to-eat, easy-to-serve meal ahead of time and drop it off at the shelter. Learn more and sign up.

What if I need help?

We have a comprehensive guide for serving meals at the shelter that you will receive when you register for a meal. This guide, coupled with personal attention from staff throughout the planning process will ensure you have a successful and fun meal. We can also host a tour ahead of time to talk through the process, and see the kitchen space.

Have questions about registering or interested in learning more, email Aaron Ramos at aramos@old.simpsonhousing.org.