Meals are arranged by Shelter staff and enjoyed at local restaurants carefully selected to mitigate the risk of teams falling ill from improperly prepared food or contaminated water.

Dietary differences are to be expected when traveling to another country. Team members should be aware that food availability differs in other parts of the world and understand that, while this can be uncomfortable, there are options to make it somewhat easier: bringing snacks or special items from home or purchasing them at local stores to supplement your diet.

It's important to recognize that not every food will appeal to everyone, and this can be viewed as part of the adventure. Additionally, considering what the family you are building for might be eating can foster understanding and connection.

Team members with food allergies need to include those details on their application form so Shelter staff are aware when planning for your trip. They may need to make special arrangements for your meals, or discuss you bringing food from home to augment your diet. While many allergies can be accommodated, Shelter staff need to be informed prior to travel in order to plan ahead. Food preferences or non-medically required diets may need to be held loosely as food availability differs in other parts of the world.

Shelter staff ensure that teams have access to safe drinking water throughout their trip. Safe drinking water is provided at the hotel and during every outing or job site that teams visit. Team members are requested to bring an insulated water bottle that they can refill as needed.

It's important to note that tap water should not be consumed, even for brushing teeth.