At the Children’s Cabinet food pantry near Midtown, Reno, volunteers are busy stacking cans and arranging fresh produce. Among them is Melissa Guerrero, a familiar face who first walked through the doors five years ago with her one‑year‑old daughter, looking for help during a difficult health transition.
A journey from client to volunteer
When Guerrero arrived at the Children’s Cabinet, she was navigating serious health challenges as a new mother. The nonprofit provided her with essential groceries, counseling, and a sense of stability that helped her regain normalcy. Today, she gives back by volunteering in the very pantry that once supported her family.
“I know how vital this pantry is for families who are struggling,” Guerrero said. “Being able to help other parents find the food they need feels like a way to pay forward the kindness we received.”
The Children’s Cabinet’s impact on the community
The Children’s Cabinet is a local nonprofit that serves more than 15,000 Nevada families annually, offering food assistance, nutrition education, and resources for parents facing hardship. Its downtown Reno location includes a pantry, a nutrition education kitchen, and a family resource center.
Director of Community Services, Carla Martinez, highlighted the importance of volunteers like Guerrero. “Our volunteers are the backbone of the pantry,” Martinez explained. “People who have experienced our services understand the difference it makes, and they bring compassion and insight that enriches our work.”
Why local volunteers matter
Volunteer involvement is critical for nonprofits that rely on community support to meet growing demand. In recent years, the Children’s Cabinet has seen a rise in families seeking assistance due to rising living costs and lingering effects of the pandemic. Volunteers help keep the pantry stocked, ensure efficient distribution, and provide a welcoming environment for families who may feel vulnerable.
Guerrero’s story underscores a broader trend: individuals who receive aid often become advocates and volunteers, strengthening the social safety net from within. This cycle of assistance and service aligns with the values of traditional families and community stewardship that many Reno residents cherish.
How to get involved
The Children’s Cabinet welcomes new volunteers of all ages. Shifts are available on weekdays and weekends, and no prior experience is required. Interested residents can sign up online at children’scabinet.org/volunteer or stop by the pantry during operating hours.
For families in need of immediate assistance, the pantry is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a walk‑in policy. The organization also offers nutrition workshops and referrals to additional community resources.
Guerrero’s transition from client to volunteer illustrates the power of community compassion in Reno. By turning personal hardship into service, she helps ensure that other families can find the stability and hope she once received.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
