The Little Free Pantry is a grassroots project applying the Little Free Library concept to address hyperlocal food insecurity. Motivated individuals or groups provide small, watertight structures at their site of choice and coordinate stocking however they choose. Others solicit support, either from individuals or organizations, and schedule stocking. Method of coordination determines pantry conte
nts. Opensource stock varies. Organized coordinators could also organize stocking specific items. Personal care items, items for baby, canned vegetables and proteins are most-needed. The Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Act protects donors and non-profit distributors of food. Irregular stocking discourages loitering and abuse. Open on nights and weekends, no questions asked, The Little Free Pantry fills gaps in service provided by organizations with operating hours and/or requiring paperwork/documentation. It also encourages community and love for neighbor. The Little Free Pantry does not come with performance metrics or guarantees but is a leap of faith in people. The original Little Free Pantry was conceptualized and piloted by Jessica McClard of Fayetteville. An avid reader and runner, she browsed Little Free Libraries popping up along her run route and became intrigued by the concept and the fact it had become viral. Conceptually, Jessica believes “Little Free” structures speak to people because they create space for community, enhancing quality of life for neighbors, while also facilitating manageable, direct action toward intractable issues—literacy and food insecurity. Individuals and groups may provide direct support to The Little Free Pantry project in two ways. Purchase items when grocery shopping, find a location, and place items inside. Or start your own Little Free Pantry! Lots of Little Free Pantries might be BIG. All are invited to like and share The Little Free Pantry page, https://www.facebook.com/littlefreepantry/, to promote the concept, action, and service. For more information, see The Little Free Pantry website at http://littlefreepantry.org/ .
