Bread For Life Co-op Assistant

For over a century, Home Sweet Home Ministries has stood as a pillar of the community and a beacon of Christ’s love for the hungry, unhoused, and hopeless here in Central Illinois. It is the mission of every member of our staff and our volunteers to demonstrate Christ’s love through innovative approaches that instill hope, restore lives, and build community. We offer supportive services to those in need – providing shelter, food, case management, as well as programs including Rapid Rehousing and our Bread for Life Co-Op.

Now you, too, can help build upon our traditions and contribute your passion for caring for others and your desire to be a guiding light for Christ’s love to those caught in the storm by joining our dedicated team. Home Sweet Home Ministries offers employment opportunities for those with a desire to be part of a community committed to helping others.

Why Work at Home Sweet Home Ministries?

Purpose-Driven Impact
Make a meaningful difference every day. Your work helps restore hope and dignity to individuals in our community while sharing Christ’s love and compassion.

Comprehensive Full-Time Benefits
We care for our team so you can care for others.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Employer-paid life insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match (after one year of employment)
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Generous paid time off
• Free on-site meals and beverages

Join a Caring Team
Work alongside compassionate, mission-driven colleagues who are committed to serving others and making a lasting impact.

Primary Location
Home Sweet Home Ministries, 303 E. Oakland, Bloomington, IL
Required Schedule
Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday, 8:30-4:30; Wednesday 12:00-8:00pm

Hourly Pay

$17.00-$17.50/hour

How You’ll Help Fulfill the HSHM Mission

The Co-op Assistant – Full Time supports the day-to-day operations of the Bread for Life Food Co-op by assisting with stocking, donation processing, member support, and maintaining a clean and welcoming environment. This hands-on role works under the direction of the Lead Co-op Assistant and helps ensure a dignified, empowering shopping experience for all members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Member Support & Hospitality

• Ensures the Bread for Life Co-op is fully prepared before shoppers arrive on shopping days.
• Welcome and assist co-op members during shopping hours, helping them locate items, bag groceries, and navigate the shopping space.

Stocking & Inventory & General Upkeep

• Stores new donations and current stock in their proper location, in an organized fashion, on the shelves in dry storage, our reach-in coolers, the walk-in freezers, etc.
• Restock shelves, freezers, and coolers using proper rotation methods.
• Keep storage areas neat, organized, and clearly labeled.
• Assist with basic inventory checks and communicate supply needs to the Lead Co-op Assistant.
• Contribute to daily upkeep of the Co-op, including cleaning surfaces, organizing crates, disposing of trash and recycling, and assisting with laundry and dishes.

Food Donation Support

• Assist with food donation pickups by driving a company vehicle to local stores, restaurants, or the food bank, and helping load donations safely at each location.

• Help unload food deliveries and donations.

• Assist with weighing and recording incoming donations.

• Sort, inspect, and store food items under supervision, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with Shelter Food Services staff.

• Assist with volunteer onboarding/training of the Co-op.

• Represents Home Sweet Home Ministries in a positive light with all donors, recipients, clients, volunteers, and the general public.