The Welcome Wagon
Real Neighbors. Real Help. Real Community.
Moving to New Hampshire is a big step and you don’t have to take it alone. A Welcome Wagon is our community’s way of showing up: people who already live here meet you at your new place, help unload, share pizza (or whatever you’ve got, no need to cook!), and make sure you feel like you’ve arrived among friends.
Welcome Wagons in Action:
How it Works
- Tell us your plans
- Use the Welcome Wagon form below to share your details
- We rally the crew
- A local coordinator pings nearby volunteers, confirms timing, and shares any access/parking notes
- Unload & settle in
- We help with the heavy lifting, meet your family, admire your first box fort, and then it’s your turn to say thanks the classic way: with pizza (or whatever fuel keeps your new friends smiling). The help is always free; the pizza is just tradition.
What to Expect
- Friendly faces: usually 2-10 neighbors, depending on time and location
- An hour or two of help: unload, stage boxes by room, basic setup
- Simple hospitality: Water bottles and a few pizzas go a long way, no payment expected
- Kid and pet friendly vibes: We’re used to wagons of all shapes and sizes
- Respect for your space: We follow your directions and handle fragile items with care.
Why We Do It
Welcome Wagons are an FSP tradition – grassroots, practical, and joyful. They turn moving day into belonging day, jump-start your local connections, and remind all of us why we chose community over isolation.
Tips to Make It Smooth
For Movers:
- Label boxes by room (kitchen, bedroom, office, etc.)
- Share parking instructions and any codes in advance
- Set aside a “first night” box (bedding, toiletries, phone chargers)
- Have water on hand; pizza after is a classic but not required
For Volunteers:
- Bring work gloves and a great attitude
- Confirm address + time in the group chat
- Ask before moving fragile/heavy items; always lift with a buddy
- Leave the place tidy, celebrate the win, and snap a photo (with permission)
Ready to get your Welcome Wagon rolling?
Interested in helping at someone else’s move-in?
We’d love that! Join the Welcome Wagon Crew to get notified when new neighbors arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to already know people?
Nope – that’s the point. Your wagon is the start of knowing people and getting you settled in.
What if my date changes?
Just update the coordinator via email/text; we’ll re-rally!
Is this a moving company?
No, it’s neighbor-powered help for unloading and settling in.
Can I request help if I’m renting?
Absolutely, renters and buyers both request welcome wagons.
Is there a cost?
No, some movers provide snacks or pizza as a thank you. It’s appreciated but never required.