11 What is the main purpose of today’s talk? A to explain pantry work and rules B to recruit people for a charity run C to describe the pantry’s history
12 How often can a household visit the pantry? A once a week B twice a week C once a month
13 How will volunteers receive their shift schedule? A by email B through an app C on a noticeboard
Questions 14 and 15
Choose TWO letters, A–E.
Which TWO common mistakes does the speaker mention?
A using the wrong shelf label B packing too many bags C forgetting batch codes D giving out damaged tins E arriving late
Questions 16–20
What skill is most helpful for each task at the pantry? Choose FIVE answers from the box and write the correct letter, A–G, next to Questions 16–20.
Skills A basic arithmetic B confident public speaking C careful hygiene awareness D strong memory for routine steps E fast typing F good organisation G knowledge of nutrition
Part 2: You will hear a talk for new volunteers at a community pantry.
Hello everyone, welcome to Cedar Steps Pantry. My name is Daniel and I coordinate volunteers. Today I will explain how the pantry works on a normal shift, and what we expect from you. This is not a long talk, but please listen closely to the parts about hygiene and record keeping, because those are the areas where new helpers most often make mistakes.
First, a quick point about our members. Each household has a membership card and they can visit once a week. The number of items they receive depends on household size, so you must check the card before you pack anything. If a family brings a friend or a neighbour to collect for them, that is allowed, but only if the collector has the card with them. If you are unsure, ask the team leader rather than guessing.
Before I mention common mistakes, a quick note about scheduling. We do not use a paper rota. You will get your shifts through an app on your phone. You can see your start time and your task area there. If you cannot come, change it in the app as soon as possible so someone else can cover the shift.
Next, hygiene and safety. Please wash your hands when you arrive, and again after touching delivery boxes. We also clean surfaces every hour, especially the table where we pack bags. Gloves are available, but they are mainly for handling chilled items and cleaning the fridge area. If you handle packaging that is wet or damaged, change gloves and wash your hands. If you feel unwell, do not come in, and message the team leader.
Now I want to mention two common mistakes. One is using the wrong shelf label. Some tins look very similar, especially when the brand and colour are the same, so check the shelf label carefully before you hand anything out. The second is forgetting to write down the batch code for chilled food. We must record batch codes so we can trace items if there is a problem later. The batch code is usually on the sticker near the date, and it only takes a moment to write it in the log.
Finally, the different tasks. At intake, you sort deliveries and put items into the correct crates. This job needs good organisation because you follow a simple order: check the date, place the item in the right crate, and keep the area tidy. At the front desk, you greet members and explain the limits politely, so confidence speaking is useful. For expiry checks, you follow the same routine each time and check dates in the same order, so a strong memory for routine steps helps. For packing bags, you count items based on household size, so basic arithmetic is useful. For cleaning the fridge area, careful hygiene awareness is essential, and you must use the correct spray and cloths.
That is the overview. In your first shift you will shadow someone, and you can ask questions at any time. Thanks again for volunteering today.
