ARLINGTON — Even after its Christmas meal distributions on Friday, Dec. 19, and Monday, Dec. 22, the Arlington Community Food Bank will still be in dire need of more volunteers to support its basic operations.

Food Bank President Sue Keezer pointed out that the nonprofit relies entirely on an unpaid volunteer staff to function, which can become especially challenging during the holidays.

“A lot of our volunteers are retired snowbirds, so either they head south for the winter, or they’re old enough that they can’t do heavy lifting,” said Keezer, who suffers from a bad back.

While Keezer would welcome volunteers who can lift up to 50 pounds, she added that the food bank could use help in a variety of positions.

“In addition to organizing and sorting through food donations at our warehouse, we could use more people to greet our clients and help them shop for what they want,” Keezer said. She explained that volunteers escort clients through the aisles, allow them to choose their own items.

Keezer asked that prospective volunteers make a weekly commitment, even if it’s only for an hour or two at a time.

“You can help us set up and break down for one of our three food distribution times each week,” Keezer said. “You can also drive our truck to local grocery stores, or even just ride along to help load and unload the items that get picked up.”

The food bank distributes meal items at 19118 63rd Ave. NE in Arlington from noon to 1 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays, and from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

You can download a volunteer application form online at www.arlingtonwafoodbank.org or pick one up at its warehouse during distribution hours.

Volunteers must pass a Washington state background check.

Amy Butchart, a member of the food bank’s board of directors, reported that the nonprofit is on track to serve more than 5,000 clients in Arlington by the end of 2014.