volunteer safety guidelines
purpose
background and challenges
background and challenges
The safety of our volunteers, the dignity of those we serve, and the integrity of our outreach mission are our priorities. This document provides essential guidance for volunteers participating in the distribution of water to individuals experiencing homelessness or other forms of vulnerability.
background and challenges
background and challenges
background and challenges
Outreach work is deeply meaningful, but it may expose you to emotionally or psychologically challenging situations. Please carefully consider your readiness to participate.
During outreach, you may encounter individuals living in extremely difficult conditions. Some may be unwashed, partially clothed or naked, or have visible infections, untreated injuries, or amputations. Others may be intoxicated, using drugs, in acute mental health crisis, or engaged in survival sex work. It is not uncommon to see individuals interacting with pimps or clients, or in possession of drug paraphernalia such as needles or pipes. Encampments often lack basic sanitation and may contain hazards like broken glass, human waste, or brackish water.
These realities reflect deeper systemic issues such as poverty, trauma, addiction, and mental illness. Your role is not to intervene, but to offer safe drinking water and a brief moment of human connection rooted in kindness, respect, and non-judgment. Prioritize your safety, remain alert, and follow all outreach protocols.
approach and interaction
background and challenges
approach and interaction
- Approach individuals respectfully and from the front; maintain a comfortable distance.
- Use open body language and a calm, friendly tone.
- Begin with a simple greeting (e.g., “Hi there, would you like some water today?”).
- Respect when someone declines and move on without pressure.
- Avoid sudden movements, standing over someone, or asking personal questions.
- Do not enter tents, makeshift shelters, enclosed spaces, or vehicles.
- Remain in open, visible areas and never separate from your team.
- Be prepared for a range of responses—some may welcome the interaction; others may be guarded or defensive.
- Stay in pairs or small teams and follow the guidance of your outreach coordinator.
general conduct
health & hygiene
approach and interaction
- Treat everyone with respect, compassion, and dignity.
- Maintain a non-judgmental and friendly demeanor.
- Your conduct reflects the mission. Represent it with integrity.
- Respect each individual’s choice to accept or decline water.
- If comfortable, offer your first name and ask for theirs. Fist bumps are welcome.
- This is a faith-based mission—feel free to say, “God bless you.”
personal safety
health & hygiene
health & hygiene
- Never conduct outreach alone.
- Carry a charged phone and emergency contacts.
- Wear your safety vest and carry ID.
- Stay in well-lit, public, populated areas.
- Do not wake individuals who are sleeping or unconscious.
- If asked for money, food, cigarettes, rides, etc., politely decline with simple phrases like: “I can offer you water, I’m sorry I don’t smoke,” or “I’m not permitted to give rides.”
health & hygiene
health & hygiene
health & hygiene
- Sanitize hands before handling water bottles.
- Only distribute sealed, unexpired, clean bottles.
- Stay home if you’re feeling unwell—your shift will be rescheduled.
- Carry sanitizer and consider wearing gloves.
- Avoid touching your face, eating, drinking, or smoking during outreach.
- Sanitize after each encounter.
boundAries & situational awareness
boundAries & situational awareness
boundAries & situational awareness
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Always have an exit plan when entering an encampment.
- Watch for hazards: needles, broken glass, contaminated water.
- Do not share personal contact information.
- Leave immediately if the area feels unsafe or a team lead instructs you to.
- Never photograph or record people without permission.
- Avoid political, religious, or emotionally charged discussions.
- Keep conversations brief if someone is incoherent or in distress.
- If asked, you can explain that I Was Thirsty is a mission of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Community Outreach.
emergency situations
boundAries & situational awareness
boundAries & situational awareness
- If in immediate danger, leave the area and call 911.
- For medical emergencies, do not administer first aid. Observe from a distance and call emergency services.
- Report safety concerns to your coordinator promptly.
supplies & equipment
boundAries & situational awareness
weather & environmental hazards
- Bring only essential items: water bottles, gloves, sanitizer, ID.
- Avoid bringing valuables or wearing excessive jewelry.
- Store personal items securely in the delivery vehicle.
- Wear closed-toed, sturdy shoes.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and your own hydration if distributing on foot.
- Do not carry weapons of any kind.
weather & environmental hazards
active police, fire or ems presence
weather & environmental hazards
- Check the forecast and dress appropriately.
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
- In high heat, take breaks and watch for signs of heat exhaustion.
active police, fire or ems presence
active police, fire or ems presence
active police, fire or ems presence
- Police, Fire, and EMS may not know about the I Was Thirsty mission.
- Never interfere with their work or cross police tape or security boundaries.
- Follow all directions immediately and respectfully.
- Do not film or photograph officials performing their duties.
- If permitted and safe, leave water in a public space and exit.
- You may offer water to officials and let them know our church is praying for their safety.
debrief & support
active police, fire or ems presence
active police, fire or ems presence
After each shift, please report to your coordinator:
- Volunteer hours
- Kilometers traveled
- Number of water cases delivered
- Any challenges or incidents
- Suggestions for improvement
Outreach can be emotionally impactful. If you feel overwhelmed, speak to a team leader—we are here to support each other.
Your safety and well-being are just as important as our mission. Thank you for your commitment to restoring dignity and hope—one bottle of water at a time.
Stay safe. Stay kind. Stay hydrated.