‘Little Free Pantries’ Are A Simple Way To Help Neighbors In Need

This is one of those little stories that hits you right where you live. Basically, it’s all about helping people in need right in our own neighborhoods.

You’ve probably seen neighborhoods with little free libraries” where people can donate or borrow books. Inspired by that concept, Jessica McClard of Fayetteville, Arkansas, decided to start the Little Free Pantry in her neighborhood.

“I wondered whether a similar site could be utilized to address another quality-of-life issue, built the box, and began piloting on May 12,” McClard told Simplemost. “So far, the concept is working.”

People can drop off non-perishable food, toiletries, diapers and other things at the pantry at any time, and anyone in need can take the items. No strings at all—just trust and belief in the human spirit of generosity.

McClard received a small micro-grant to be used on a community service project, and she used it to set up the pantry in mid-May in front of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Fayetteville. McClard said items donated to the pantry are sometimes gone within 30 minutes, suggesting a high level of need in the community.

“While this does suggest more demand-side traffic, my community’s ongoing support continues to be above and beyond what I’d hoped, and I am so excited at how the idea has spread and is being duplicated elsewhere,” McClard said.

Similar free pantries have sprung up at Christ’s Church in South Fayetteville and at Crystal Rock Cathedral in Ardmore, Oklahoma.

The Little Free Pantry brings people together for a common purpose—to help one another. McClard told ABC News that personal hygiene products are the most popular. Some people have left school supplies, and the free pantry was even decorated with flags for Memorial Day!

Feeling inspired to start a free pantry in your community? Check out the FAQ page for The Little Free Pantry in Fayetteville.

Watch the video below to learn more about The Little Free Pantry:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=purW3LyT8Qs&ab_channel=ADBELRAHMANRAMZY

[h/t: Huffington Post]