The Truck
The truck is licensed by the city of St. Paul as a mobile kitchen similar to a
concessions vehicle at the state fair. With that comes the responsibility of hair nets or hats, gloves, minimum food
temperatures, etc. The truck has a refrigerator, four bay propane food warmer, sink, hot water, air conditioning for
those 90 degree summer days, propane heater for those -20 degree winter days, microwave, storage shelves, and linex flooring
for easy cleaning.
Food Service with Flair
It is just 5 minutes from the warehouse to the Dorothy Day Center,
the current service location. In the drive we pass by Harriott Island, across the Wabasha Bridge, by the Science Museum,
and around the Excel Energy Center. After we park, the volunteer team sets up and stages about 15 meals; there can be
up to 35 people standing in line; they know we show up around 1 pm.
There are five main roles on the truck, similar
to Subway or Chipotle. The Greeter, Beverage Giver, Condiment Assembler, Side Dish Giver, and the Main Plate Preparer.
Depending on the complexity of the meal and the number of volunteers, some of these roles can be combined. The first
10 minutes are the most stressful as the team forms, storms, and norms!
