About AIDS

Good diet is one of the most important tools for managing HIV disease. But how do people get adequate - and correct - nutrition if being sick has left them unable to work? How do they even find out about nutritional management to start with? That's where the Helping Hands Food Pantry at AIDS Services of Austin comes in. The Food Pantry provides a way for indigent HIV+ people to supplement their food supplies, plus education programs about how and why to eat right.

Most of the work in the Food Pantry is performed by a jolly bunch of volunteers, but as holiday time approaches, we need lots more help! Working in the Food Pantry is one of the most meaningful ways of assisting those struggling with HIV. Volunteers should be prepared for vigorous work, lots of laughter, and maybe some emotional moments.

Volunteers get the pantry ready and dispense groceries to the 250-plus individuals and families who come each week - sorting donations, repackaging bulk foods, stocking shelves, filling individual orders, assisting clients with carry-out, and maintaining our wonderful new facility. Volunteers should be prepared to do some light to moderate lifting, stay calm working in a fast-paced environment, and be able to think on their feet.

Food Pantry volunteers can commit to as little as two hours per week during the holiday season (Mondays-Thursdays, December 4-January 16) - or lots more, if they wish. Time slots for volunteering are: Monday, 10:30am-1:30pm; Tuesday, 2pm-7pm; Wednesday, 8pm-5pm; Thursday, noon-4pm.

A Food Pantry volunteers orientation will be held Monday evening, December 4. For more information, call 406-6167.