This pantry (also little library) was inspired over two years ago and is still going strong. These pantries are across the whole United States and we are so happy to have one set up in Monteagle, TN. Local volunteers heard of what we wanted to do and built us a pantry for the store.
The pantry/library is an honors program as people take what they want, give when they can. The pantry is small but it helps feed some local individuals and families. A sorta go between with our county food banks. Recently, we have heard from families directly and have begun to personally shop with our donations and get what groceries we can on their list. A new added service to the pantry.
We shop every few weeks with what is given and keep staples in it like pasta, sauce, mac n' cheese, peanut butter, jelly, rice, baby food, and other non-perishable items. Also, soaps, toothpaste and other toiletries have been available. We have even had cat and dog food to help the furry friend community.
The little free pantry also has become a part of a donation program through our local online farmers market and we will be able to purchase items such as honey, eggs and some fresh veggies! Looking to our future we hope to have little free farmers market days and get goods directly to families when we can.
Actual Food and Book donations (especially children's books) are always welcome and some have asked to make money donations available, so here it is! You can visit here to give as low as $5 to help with a meal. Any excess of food we will donate to other local food banks.
Thank you so much for your continued support! We really love running the little pantry and glad it gives a little added help to the mountain community.