Volunteer Guide: Become a Grocery Buddy

In this section, you can learn more about becoming a grocery buddy and the different ways you can lend support to our community.

Once you understand your options, fill out a volunteer form so we can best match you with a neighbor in need.

NOTE: If your situation changes and you would like to adjust or stop your donations, please let us know.

If you have any questions, you can reach us at mkegrocerybuddy@gmail.com.

Volunteer Form

Grocery Buddy 101: Understanding Your Options and Steps to Take

There are two main ways to be an MKE Grocery Buddy: through direct financial support or grocery delivery.

Option 1: Send Funds Directly to Your Match

  • Let us know the type of support you can provide, the amount (if any), and any other preferences (supporting the same family, zip codes you can deliver to, etc). This info helps us match you with a Grocery Buddy.

    Step 2: Get Matched
    We’ll connect you with a neighbor in need via text or email. Start with a brief phone or video chat to introduce yourself and build trust. A short conversation goes a long way in creating comfort for both sides.

    Step 3: Decide on Frequency & Amount
    Choose how much to send and how often—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—directly to your neighbor using Venmo, Cash App, PayPal, cash, check, etc.

    Step 5: Communicate Openly
    Maintain clear communication with your neighbor and/or group. This ensures trust and smooth coordination.

  • We’ll connect you with a neighbor in need via text or email. Start with a brief phone or video chat to introduce yourself and build trust. A short conversation goes a long way in creating comfort for both sides

  • Choose how much to send and how often—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—directly to your neighbor using Venmo, Cash App, PayPal, cash, check, etc.

    Be sure to discuss duration as well.

  • Maintain clear communication with your neighbor. This ensures trust and smooth coordination.

  • You may be grouped with others to meet a larger request (for example, four $25/week Buddies covering a $100/week need).

    • We’ll introduce you to your fellow Buddies before connecting you with your neighbor.

    • Choose one point person to communicate with your neighbor, then decide together how to send funds—either individually or pooled.

    • You’re welcome to share payment confirmations within your group for accountability, though it’s not required.

Option 2: Purchase & Deliver Groceries to Your Match

  • Let us know the type of support you can provide, the amount (if any), and any other preferences (supporting the same family, zip codes you can deliver to, etc). This info helps us match you with a Grocery Buddy.

  • We’ll connect you with a neighbor in need via text or email. Start with a brief phone or video chat to introduce yourself and build trust. A short conversation goes a long way in creating comfort for both sides.

  • Together, choose:

    • How often groceries will be delivered (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.)

    • Whether your neighbor provides a grocery list or you choose items

    • A delivery day and time that works for both of you

  • You shop in person or order groceries online for delivery.

    NOTE: Delivery service fees (e.g., Instacart) are your responsibility as a volunteer.

  • Check in to confirm deliveries or discuss grocery needs. Honest communication keeps the program running smoothly!

  • You may be grouped with others to meet a larger request (for example, four $25/week Buddies covering a $100/week need):

    • We’ll introduce you to your fellow Buddies before connecting you with your neighbor.

    • Choose one point person for communication, then decide together how to handle payments and deliveries—whether sending funds individually or pooling them, taking turns or having one regular delivery person.

    • You’re welcome to share payment or receipt confirmations within your group for accountability, though it’s not required.