09/03/2026
The Little Free Pantry will reopen on Saturday, Sept. 19.
I have gone back and forth about reopening it. I even questioned whether I should do it if I could not fund everything myself.
When I first opened the pantry, I paid for most of what went inside, with some wonderful people occasionally bringing items to help. I loved being able to do that. But groceries cost more now, money is tight for nearly everyone and the reality is that keeping it fully stocked by myself would be difficult.
Then I reminded myself that accepting help does not make the pantry any less meaningful. Maybe it simply means it is time for it to become more community based.
I plan to continue paying for most of what goes inside. I will also do the shopping, watch what is being used and take care of stocking it. But if others would like to add an item or two occasionally, it would help keep the pantry available for the people who need it.
The Little Free Pantry does not come close to doing what The Bread Box does for our community, nor is it meant to. The Bread Box provides much more substantial help. This little pantry is simply here to fill some of the gaps.
Sometimes someone needs a few groceries to make it until payday. Sometimes a child needs something for breakfast, a family needs enough for one simple supper or someone runs out of a basic necessity at the worst possible time. Sometimes people need help when other resources are not open. Sometimes they simply need to take what they need quietly, without explaining their circumstances.
That is why this little pantry matters.
When the pantry was open before, the items that disappeared most quickly were things people could use easily. Canned soups, rice and pasta mixes, canned meals, tuna, chicken, peanut butter, cereal and snacks for children were always needed. Toiletries and paper products were used too. The pantry does not need unusual or expensive items. It needs the everyday things that can become breakfast, lunch or supper when the cupboards are running low.
I see other little pantries create Amazon wish lists and yes, that would certainly be easy. But I would rather the money spent helping our neighbors also stay here in Sutton. If you would like to contribute, I hope you will consider picking up an extra item or two at Brown’s. One purchase can help a neighbor while also supporting the local grocery store our entire community needs.
If shopping or dropping off items is not convenient, contributions may also be sent through Venmo to -613. I will use any money received to purchase pantry items at Brown’s.
Donations may be placed directly in the pantry once it reopens or left on my porch at 103 West Laurel. It is the house with the giant rooster out front. And by giant, I mean six feet tall, so I feel confident you will find us. 😂
I am learning that doing something good does not mean one person has to do all of it alone. I will continue doing what I can and I hope this little pantry can become something our community helps care for together.
It may be little, but when someone needs what is inside, it does not feel little at all.
