The Welcoming Nucleus of the Ballard Food Bank

Authored by volunteer writer, Kara Wistoe

Every Wednesday from 10am to 4pm, clients are greeted by the smiling face of Kristen Wittstock. As a front desk volunteer, she plays a critical role in maintaining the smooth operation of the food bank. New families are coming in every day, and Kristen and the other front desk volunteers are often their first contact. “We’re the face of the organization,” says Kristen, who’s volunteered at the desk for five years.

Kristen answers questions and explains the rules in this busy area at the entrance to the food bank. She directs clients toward the market and the Kindness Café, where they can get a hot meal Monday to Thursday, and no-cook meal bags for those without access to a kitchen. She registers new clients for food services and tallies the number of people who come in. These statistics are used to determine how much and what type of food to order, including the amount of gluten-free, low-sodium, vegetarian and other special meals for clients with dietary restrictions.

Front desk staff also provide information about vital resources available through the Ballard Food Bank. “Most new people don’t realize all that we offer - such as mail desk services, rent and utilities assistance, ID vouchers, bus tickets and other non-food related resources. We also have partner agencies that assist clients at our Resource Hub with free vet care, vaccinations, health screenings, and housing and mental health services,” says Food Bank Manager Sarah Huttula. “Our volunteers welcome them with friendly smiles and conversation to make everyone feel welcome, relaxed and comfortable.”

Kristen Wittstock in our free community market.

Beyond providing a description of food bank protocol and services, the front desk may provide the first step toward personal connection. “The number of tears of gratitude shed after receiving help or support always pulls at my heart strings,” says Sarah. “I was talking to longtime client at the front desk recently. He mentioned that the opportunity to move to a different state came up. He thought about it and realized he couldn’t leave the food bank. It meant so much to him and he’s received so much support here for the last few decades. He said he couldn’t picture his life without coming here. It really shows how much of a community this place is for people.”  

If you’re interested in volunteering, fill out an online application. Front desk volunteers commit to a set schedule every week or a few times per month. Kristen shares her advice for new volunteers in this important role. “You need a lot of compassion to work at the front desk. You come to understand that many people don’t have a lot of access to food. You have to multi-task, deal well with stress and maintain a sense of humor. You should enjoy interacting with all types of people. The front desk is the place where most people have their first connection with the food bank and I enjoy sharing all that we have to offer.”