How it works
Small, usually homemade structures are built, filled with nonperishable food and household items and then set up in conspicuous locations throughout a community. The little pantries are stocked by kind hearted neighbors who may have a surplus of items in their home or who simply want to do something to help out their community. The ultimate goal of the project is to ensure that everyone in the vicinity has enough to eat and access to basic necessities.
Jessica McClard of Fayetteville, Arkansas is credited as creator and unofficial founder of this movement. The Little Free Pantry has made quite a stir in the Fayetteville area and the idea is beginning to spread elsewhere. In an interview with a local news station, McClard explained why her vision is gaining ground so quickly:
Eliminating the stigma and building community
Little Free Pantry is not intended to just help the impoverished and needy, but it is intended to bring the community together. The pantries are entirely community run and are open to all 24/7. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to take and donate items to the pantry as they see fit, eliminating the stigma and shame associated with receiving food from donation sources.
Take Actions
Assisting in this amazing and kindhearted movement is simple. Below are a few ways you can assist:
