Overtown Community Distributions

How It Works

Each month, Lotus House and Health in the Hood transform the parking lot on 15th St into a one-stop resource hub for those outside our shelter. Individuals and families can access groceries, prepared meals, hygiene supplies, health services, educational resources, and support from local nonprofit partners-all in one location and all at no cost.

Looking for Resources?

Our monthly Community Distribution line begins outside the Lotus House parking lot on NW 15th Street. Registration takes place on-site.

We recommend arriving early and bringing a water bottle, hat, and other sun protection, as the line is outdoors. Distributions typically continue until supplies are exhausted, usually around 1:00 PM.

How Can I Get Involved as a Volunteer?

Each month, Lotus House welcomes organizations and individual volunteers to support our Community Distributions by hosting a table or providing general event assistance.

To volunteer, please create an account through our volunteer portal, POINT, and sign up for an upcoming Community Distribution (visit our Volunteering page here).

Individuals or organizations interested in hosting a table can support our community through:

  • Prepared meals and groceries (please note prepared meals must come from a restaurant or a licensed caterer)
  • Hygiene and feminine care essentials
  • Health screenings, including vaccinations, vision, dental, ultrasounds, wellness exams, and more
  • Health education on topics such as mental health, cancer prevention, HPV, and STI awareness
  • School supplies and uniforms, toys, and other essential resources for children and families

Interested in providing resources and services on a regular basis year-round? We are always seeking community organizations and service providers to participate in our monthly Community Distributions. To learn more, please contact [email protected].

Volunteer Day Details

Parking: Parking is limited. Free street parking is available along NW 2nd Avenue and NW 14th Terrace. 

Arrival: You can arrive at our newest facility, the Children’s Village, at 219 NW 14th Terrace Miami 33136. The Children’s Village is the large grey, pink, and white building in front of Lotus House. Please arrive at your scheduled volunteer time and check in with a Lotus House staff member wearing a pink uniform. If you are hosting a table and need to drop off items, you are welcome to pull your car up to the white gate on 14th Terrace, drop off your materials, and then find appropriate parking.

Check-In: All volunteers must sign into POINT upon arrival. A staff member will direct you to your assigned volunteer station and provide any necessary instructions.

What to Bring: We do not have storage for personal items. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle with a wearable strap, wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes, and dressing appropriately for outdoor weather conditions. Sunscreen, hats, and other sun protection are encouraged. 

Check-Out: Before leaving, be sure to sign out in POINT so we can accurately record your volunteer hours.

Volunteer Hour Verification: If you require volunteer hours to be verified by signature, please bring your printed volunteer log and have the staff member supervising your shift sign it before you leave.

Our Community Distributions are supported by