Building a Better Community Together
There are numerous opportunities to get involved in our work, including making a financial contribution (ongoing or annual) and volunteering (as an individual or a group).
Our volunteers, donors and board members are integral members of our team. Their time, talent and financial support are essential to our mission and make a lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of people every day.
If you have ideas on how you or your organization can assist us in fulfilling and sustaining our mission, please contact us.
Volunteer & Community Service Opportunities
Whether you are looking for a meaningful way to share your time and talent on a regular basis or through a one-time project, you will find a rewarding experience that will make a difference in the lives of our guests at St. Mary’s.
Many volunteers looking to give back to their community are surprised by how much they receive from the experience. Volunteers of all ages leave with a deeper understanding of homelessness and stronger compassion, empathy and grace for their neighbors in need.
Our Dining Room offers volunteer groups a chance to give back to their community and sharpen valuable teamwork and collaboration skills while preparing and serving meals in our Kitchen and Dining Room.
St. Mary’s has numerous other volunteer needs. For example, we are looking for nail technicians, crafters, dentists and more! If you have a talent or skill, our volunteer coordinator will ensure that you are matched with the perfect opportunity.
Perhaps your club, organization or neighborhood is interested in hosting a donation drive. St. Mary’s has specific needs, such as diapers, men’s clothing and industrial-size canned goods, that can be met in profound ways through community drives.
Together, we can change lives!
For more information, contact Karen Gonzales
Immediate Volunteer Needs
Volunteers Treat Guests to Tasty Authentic Mexican Meals
Community Service (CS) Program
Community Service Registration Process
(Must be completed in person)
1. Register at the Administration Office
(Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.)
2. Present a Government Issued Photo ID
(if volunteer is under 18, a chaperone ID is required)
3. Present a Log Sheet/Document stating:
• The name of the institution/course requesting the hours
• Number of hours to serve
• Expiration/Due Date
• Case Number (Court/Probation)
• Donating Essential Items
Donating Essentials Items
The most impactful way to support our work is through financial contributions. St. Mary’s is able to multiply your donations by purchase food and other items at a discount through government assistance programs.
We do accept donations of food, clothing, toiletries, diapers and many other new and gently used items that are on our Wish List. Individuals and families can donate, or groups can host community drives. Drives are a fun way for your company, youth group, family or club to collect funds and/or needed items for our guests!
Visit our Ways to Give page to learn more, or check out our Wish List.
For more information, contact Karen Gonzales
Towel Drive Inspires Community to Stock Showers
Participants in Leadership Stockton toured St. Mary’s in March of 2023, and when they heard about the dire need for towels in the Shower and Clothing Center, one of the participants connected us with several hotel managers, who agreed to donate towels that didn’t meet the hotels’ quality standards. He and another member of the group started a towel drive in Lincoln Center, which resulted in 300 towels, wash cloths, blankets and sheets for our guests.
If you would like to host a donation drive (we are especially in need of size 4-5 diapers), please contact Karen Gonzales.