You turn up, someone shows you what to do, and you get on with it. That is genuinely most of it. If you are hesitating because you are not sure what you are walking into, here is the honest version.
What you will probably be doing
Most first shifts are in the Revesby warehouse: sorting donated goods, checking quality, organising items by type and size, and packing essentials for families. It is straightforward work that becomes obvious within about ten minutes.
If you join a Clothe the Homeless run instead, you will help load, set up in the city, and hand out items directly.
What to wear and bring
- Closed-toe shoes, not sandals
- Clothes you do not mind getting dusty
- A water bottle
- Layers, since warehouses are cold in winter and warm in summer
Things people worry about unnecessarily
- “I do not know anyone.” Most people arrive alone. The work is shared, so conversation happens naturally.
- “I am not Muslim.” Volunteers come from every background. Nobody will ask.
- “I am not strong enough.” There is a range of work, from lifting to sorting small items while seated. Say what suits you.
- “I can only spare a couple of hours.” That is useful. There is no minimum.
- “I will be in the way.” You will not. Extra hands are the constraint, not the problem.
The honest parts
Some days are repetitive. Sorting is not thrilling for the fourth hour. Occasionally you will read a referral note or see a delivery list and it will land harder than you expected, because the need behind the boxes becomes concrete.
Most people find that is the part that brings them back. The work is unusually direct. You pack a box, and a specific family opens it that week.
After your first shift
There is no obligation to return. Some people come once, some weekly. If you enjoyed it, tell the coordinator what you would like to do more of, since there is more variety than a first shift suggests. Our guide to volunteering in Sydney covers the full range of roles.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No. Someone will show you what to do, and most warehouse tasks are clear within ten minutes.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes and clothes you do not mind getting dusty. Bring a water bottle and dress in layers, since warehouses get cold in winter.
Can I volunteer alone?
Yes, and most people do. The work is shared so you will not be isolated.
Do I have to be Muslim to volunteer?
No. Volunteers come from every background and faith, and nobody will ask.
How long is a shift?
It varies, and there is no minimum commitment. Even a couple of hours is genuinely useful.
Is the work physically demanding?
Some of it involves lifting, but there is a range of tasks including lighter sorting work. Tell the coordinator what suits you.
Support the work behind this article
House of Sadaqa is a registered Australian charity helping local families in crisis with household essentials, whitegoods and emergency relief. There are three direct ways to be part of it:
- Donate, with donations over $2 tax-deductible
- Volunteer your time in the warehouse, on outreach runs, or at events
- Clear a NSW fine through a Work and Development Order
You can also support us without donating a cent, simply by choosing one of our social enterprises. Each one puts its profits back into supporting families:
- Goodwill Connect, NBN internet for Greater Sydney
- Panda Paper, premium bamboo toilet paper delivered to your door
- The Goodwill Laundry, self-serve laundry in Bankstown
- The Goodwill Shop, our op-shops in Revesby and Bankstown