I feel like I gained a brand new perspective and I’ve grown as a person to be more independent and also brave. I would tell someone who is hesitant about the program about how safe and impactful the trip will be and initial nerves or doubts are normal, however, IVHQ is a highly organized and safe program.
Food Rescue Volunteer Project in Croatia - Split
Purpose
Support Community Development
Start dates
Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 1-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Dormitory-style hostel
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
This project suits volunteers who like hands-on, people-facing days. You don’t need any food industry experience. Just show up on time, keep an open mind and be ready to pitch in wherever the team needs you.
Project details
Help get hot meals and food parcels to people facing hardship in Split, Croatia. Volunteers join a well-established humanitarian organization that runs community dining halls, collects donated goods and supports local families. Your days could include serving meals, sorting donations and packing parcels.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
You’ll spend your shifts with the local team, getting food from where there’s too much to where there isn’t enough. Depending on the organization’s needs, your tasks may include:
- Collecting surplus food from local shops and businesses before it goes to waste
- Serving hot meals in community dining halls
- Sorting and organizing donated food and other essential items
- Preparing food and supply packages for individuals and families in need
- Helping deliver meals to people who are unable to visit the dining hall
- Supporting social, recreational and educational activities for community members
It’s a practical, hands-on project where your support helps strengthen essential services for vulnerable members of the local community.
Why do Food Rescue volunteering in Split with IVHQ?
As a Food Rescue volunteer in Split, you’ll help keep good food out of the trash and get it to local families who need it. Along the way, you’ll grow personally and professionally by:
- Providing essential support to people experiencing hardship
- Gaining practical experience in humanitarian work, social care and community service
- Seeing how a busy humanitarian organization keeps food moving every day, from pickup to plate
- Living in Split, where the Old Town is built inside a Roman palace and the Adriatic is never far away
Volunteer requirements
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate in this program. If you are under 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad to explore these options.
Volunteers aged over 18 on their start date are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ before departure.
All volunteers must speak English and have adequate volunteer travel insurance.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Croatia photo gallery
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split, Croatia during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Split during an IVHQ weekend
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
The IVHQ Croatia volunteer program is based in Split, a vibrant seaside city on the Mediterranean coast and the second largest city in Croatia. This is a golden opportunity to volunteer in Europe in a destination that’s high on every traveler’s bucket list. Known for its scenic ocean views, rich cultural heritage and authentic Croatian charm, Split is a popular hub for both locals and tourists alike.
Volunteer placements are located in and around Split, with the Marine Conservation project based in the nearby coastal town of Omiš. While program activities take place in and around Split, volunteers are accommodated a short drive from the city centre, with easy access to explore the area on foot or by public transport.
While Split is a well-developed city, it still has under-served communities, social and environmental challenges, and community-driven initiatives in need of support. By choosing to volunteer here, you’ll be contributing to meaningful local projects that aim to improve the livelihoods and wellbeing of the surrounding communities.
Arrival and orientation
The Croatia volunteer program begins on the first and third Monday of every month, and you need to arrive in Split on the Sunday before your chosen start date.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Split International Airport (SPU).Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee, however, if you arrive outside of Sunday between 9am and 9pm, your pick-up will incur an extra cost.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to the volunteer accommodation. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are travelling in Croatia prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up from a meeting point in Split on the Sunday before your program start date. You are also free to make your own way to the volunteer accommodation.
On Monday, orientation is hosted by our local team in Croatia and runs for a full day. Orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Croatia – an introduction to Croatia, Croatian customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities in Croatia, and an introduction to your project and placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socialising.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays:
A volunteer day is subject to change depending on your specific project and placement. A typical daily schedule might be as follows:
| 8:00 - 10:00 AM | Breakfast is served at the hostel. |
| 9:00 AM | Volunteers with a morning shift travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project. |
| 12:00 - 2:30 PM | Lunch is served at a local restaurant. |
| 2:30 PM | Volunteers with an afternoon or evening shift travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on their project. |
| 7:30 - 9.00 PM | Dinner at a local restaurant. After dinner you will have the remainder of the evening free to relax and use as you wish. |
Please note that the schedule may occasionally change due to weather, public or school holidays, or other unforeseen events that could affect your placement. We recommend checking in advance whether your intended travel dates coincide with any public or school holidays.
Weekends:
Volunteers have the weekends free and Split and Croatia are full of interesting things to do, see, visit, eat and learn.
Croatia has a wondrous history and culture, paired with beautiful coastline and nature. You can spend a weekend traveling across the country - visit the popular Klis fortress that is only a short drive from Split, or spend the day in nature surrounded by waterfalls in Krka National Park or Plitvice National Park. If you are looking for an adventurous activity, try rafting down the river in Dalmatian hinterlands, or sea-kayaking the beautiful see-through Adriatic Sea. There is so much to see and explore, and nothing is far away in Croatia!
Volunteers can make travel arrangements further afield once in Croatia, with the advice and guidance of our local staff.
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers stay in a modern, centrally located hostel in Split, just a short walk from public transportation. Everyday essentials like supermarkets, cafés, pharmacies, and ATMs are all conveniently nearby, making it easy to settle in and get around the city.
Accommodation is in dormitory-style rooms, separated by gender, with up to eight people per room. Each volunteer is provided with a secure locker, and the hostel includes free WiFi and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable stay.
Please note that this is a public hostel, so it is shared with other travelers as well as volunteers. This creates a lively, social environment and offers a great opportunity to meet people from around the world.
Shared facilities include a dining area, a lounge for relaxing and socializing, and a communal kitchen with a refrigerator, microwaves, and basic cooking utensils. Bathrooms are shared and separated by gender, with Western-style toilets and hot showers. Bedding and towels are provided, and the facilities are cleaned regularly, though volunteers are expected to help maintain cleanliness in communal areas.
For those desiring more privacy, private rooms can be arranged at an additional cost. Please contact us or your Program Manager for more details and pricing. Please note that all accommodation upgrades are subject to availability.
Meals
Start your day with a self-served breakfast at the hostel, where ingredients are provided for you to prepare your own meal, with options to suit different preferences and dietary needs. Lunch and dinner are served at a nearby restaurant, offering a delicious mix of Western and traditional Croatian dishes. Please note that if your placement is located further from the hostel, lunch may be arranged at an alternative restaurant in Split to ensure convenience during your workday.
If you have any special dietary requirements, please note in your application so the local team can make the necessary arrangements.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are typically available, as well as options for dairy-free, nut-free, and gluten intolerance diets. However, please note that due to the risk of cross-contamination, coeliac-safe meals cannot be guaranteed. Unfortunately, halal, and kosher meal options are also not available.
Volunteer hostel
Volunteer hostel
Volunteer hostel
Hostel lounge
Hostel kitchen
Hostel bedroom upgrade
Hostel bathroom upgrade
Typical hostel bedroom
Typical hostel bedroom
Typical hostel bathroom
Typical hostel bathroom
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$329 (approximately AU$494), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$329 (approximately AU$494) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
|
Duration
|
Program Fee
Due 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 1 week | $790 Equivalent to $113/day |
| 2 weeks | $1,290 Equivalent to $92/day |
| 3 weeks | $1,790 Equivalent to $85/day |
| 4 weeks | $2,290 Equivalent to $82/day |
| 5 weeks | $2,790 Equivalent to $80/day |
| 6 weeks | $3,290 Equivalent to $78/day |
| 8 weeks | $4,290 Equivalent to $77/day |
| 10 weeks | $5,290 Equivalent to $76/day |
| 12 weeks | $6,290 Equivalent to $75/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$329 (approximately AU$494) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country emergency support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalised preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
- Discounts on language lessons
- Discounts on travel, tours, and experiences
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular tours & experiences in Split
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular tours and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Split program.
Croatia Adventure (9 days, 7 nights)
With over 2,500 hours of sunshine each year, Croatia is already swoon-worthy — but that’s just the beginning. Add in unique culture, historic cities, mouthwatering cuisine, picturesque ports, and jaw-dropping nature, and you’ll never want to leave.
From AU$3983
Airport Drop-off Split
Enjoy a stress free ride, arranged by our local team, from the volunteer accommodation back to Split airport.
AU$123
Airport Drop-off from Omis
Enjoy a stress free ride, arranged by our local team, from the volunteer accommodation back to Split airport.
AU$168
Check what's required to visit Croatia
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Zagreb |
| Population | 4.7 million |
| Languages | Croatian |
| Currency | Croatian Kuna (HRK) |
| Time zone | UTC+02:00 |
Weather and climate
The Adriatic coast of Croatia, where our volunteer program is based, enjoys a Mediterranean climate of cool, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Temperatures in Split range from 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C) in winter and 79°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C) in the summer, which runs from June to August.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
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Sonia Shepherd
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Camila Ruiz Robles
During my volunteer experience I got to help a local NGO and got to see the excitement my help created. I also got to grow as a person by going on a trip alone for the first time, which pushed me out of my comfort zone but it made me step into scenarios that made me grow. Overall I would say that anyone who is hesitant should know that the local team and IVHQ is by your side at all times and they will help you if you need anything.
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SG
Simona Gruber
I was in Croatia for a month and learned how to scuba dive. As a complete beginner I didn't know what to expect but I absolutely loved it. I truly felt like I helped to clean the ocean and protect the wildlife. All people from IVHQ, the local team, the diving instructors, the host and the other volunteers were so kind and respectful. I made many unforgetful memories with them.
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Carly Sterbentz
I have felt a deeper confidence and understanding of myself in doing this project alone. I also feel more educated about diving. It was exciting, entertaining and well organized. I was able to meet so many incredible people who I will keep in contact with. Overall, I would 100% do this program again and am looking forward to trying a new program. Omis is a special place and I’m thankful I spent two weeks here.
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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
