Meal teams especially short on numbers

NORTH COUNTY — The El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) is looking for more volunteers to join their mission of helping the local unhoused. Specifically, ECHO is searching for people who would like to serve on its meal teams that provide and help distribute food for its Nightly Meal Program at both the Atascadero and Paso Robles campuses. The food program runs every night of the year from 5 to 6 p.m. 

“Although we also serve breakfast and lunch to the residents of our shelter programs, the Nightly Meal Program alone serves between 80 to 120 individuals at each campus each night,” said ECHO’s Director of Operations and Development Austin Solheim. “That is roughly 75,000 meals per year that are provided by volunteers from the community.” 

Meal teams at ECHO started back in 2001 when community volunteers came together to support their neighbors who were facing homelessness. Now, 23 years later, ECHO has expanded to two campuses, the original in Atascadero and its newest location in Paso Robles. Between the two of them, they have 130 emergency shelter beds. Still, the Nightly Meal Program continues to be one of ECHO’s vital resources for the community.

“Meal teams are composed of friends, families, coworkers, restaurant partners, and more, with each member typically contributing a different dish, such as the main course or side dishes,” Solheim added. “ECHO’s Volunteer Coordinators manage the schedule to ensure every day of the month is covered.”

The program itself and the volunteers who make it happen create a central hub at both campuses for ECHO’s services to be able to reach anyone who needs them.

“It [the program] not only provides meals to our shelter residents but also welcomes individuals and families who may be visiting for the first time, as well as former residents who have transitioned to stable housing and return to volunteer and reconnect with friends,” Solheim stated. “It is crucial service that creates an opportunity for our team and community to build trust with those who need it most.”

Current staff and volunteers also use the Nightly Meal Program as a way to connect guests coming in for a meal with the rest of ECHO’s resources and information on their programs. ECHO also has a shower program and a laundry program and provides many other resources that help people make their way into housing of their own.

“It’s been heartwarming to witness the generosity and dedication of our volunteers, some of whom have been with us for years, consistently showing up to ensure that we can serve meals every day,” added Solheim of their current volunteer team.

Though ECHO is looking for people to join its meal teams, the organization is always searching for people who want to be involved in ECHO’s events, outreach, or any of its other services as well.

All volunteers can choose how often they would like to be a part of ECHO’s meal teams and more. While some volunteers sign up to prepare meals once a month, others volunteer quarterly, while others volunteer once a year.

“The flexibility allows people to contribute in a way that fits their schedule, and every bit of help is greatly appreciated. Whether you can volunteer regularly or occasionally, your involvement makes a significant difference in supporting our community meal program,” said Solheim. “Volunteering with ECHO is not just about serving meals — it’s about being part of a community that cares, making connections, and offering hope to those who need it most. We encourage anyone interested to join us, no matter your skill set or experience. Every volunteer brings something valuable to the table, and together, we can continue making a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

Anyone who is interested in volunteering for the Nightly Meal Program or wants to see other ways to get involved can reach out to ECHO at its main number, (805) 462-3663, or learn more at echoshelter.org by visiting their volunteer page.

Featured Image: ECHO volunteers are shown during a serving for the organization’s meal plan. ECHO is looking for volunteers for its Nightly Meal Program, which serves 80 to 120 individuals at each of its campuses. Contributed Photo