Community Chat

[AuntG]

It's been suggested that our local community set up outdoor (unmanned) food pantries. The goods are placed in a covered box that has a window in front to display the contents. Do you think this would be feasible in cold and hot weather? I can envision things freezing or exploding. Plus are things like plastic food cups safe when enclosed in a box that could get dangerously hot? I don't want to discourage anyone, but I also worry about someone tampering with the products. Oh, and we have a food bank already, but because you have to sign up, some people say this anonymous way of feeding the poor will take away any stigma. Any thoughts?

[alicedee]

It seems to me the integrity of some items could really be affected by weather extremes.  You also brought up a good point about food being in a setting where it could be tampered with.  Sadly, in these times that is a valid concern.

In our town any church denomination will give a food voucher (or box of groceries if they have their own pantry) to anyone who asks...no forms filled out.  Perhaps it would be safer for the community to work with churches or a community center to do something similar for those who are embarrassed to go sign up at the pantry?  

And if they are in need all the time....the pantry is there for them.  Yes it might be embarrassing for some to sign up....,but if it’s that or go hungry, they have to do what needs to be done...,and perhaps they can pay it forward someday...or they helped others in the past.  

I’m sure most pantry volunteers are kind and sensitive to not embarrassing anyone...they are volunteering because they are caring people.

[Kachina624]

While the effort is admirable, I foresee many potential problems that would over-ride any advantages.  If I was really hungry or had kids to feed, I think common sense and hunger would over-ride any hesitancy to use a food bank.  It's a duplication of effort.

[CelticCrafter]

I don't think it's a good idea.  There's no way of knowing that it would be used only by those that are truly in need.

I know someone that would have no problem taking from it, only because it's free and it's being given away anyway.  Not only would they take for themselves but also for friends, he did it this weekend with tons of personal care items we were donating to those that are less fortunate.

[Cakers3]

I would vote no.

It sounds like a very charitable thing to do but there is an honesty factor here that would be an issue.

I understand a person may feel uncomfortable signing up at the food bank but the food bank will have so much more to offer than a few items in an unmanned box.

Where would this little pantry be set up and how would word get out?

[Cakers3]

@AuntG   I looked this up and it appears to be inspired by the Little Free Libray. 

Little Free Pantry      .org

(wasn't sure if I should link)

[Travone]

My city has this.  It just started so I don't know how it will work.  But, I think they are asking people to deposit staple that will not spoil.....pasta, canned goods etc.

As for those withdrawing the items, it is the honor system.  Hopefully it will be just those in need.

[Pqfan]

I love this idea!

It would last about 2 seconds in my neighborhood but I love it.

Food tampering and theft might be an issue.😔

[Cakers3]

Here is the link:  I don't think it will violate standards.

http://www.littlefreepantry.org/

[SilleeMee]

The best thing to do to help the needy is to donate money to a charity program....to a food bank, for example. They will do the rest.

Most food bank places need money more than they need food, especially during the off-holiday times when people don't give much of anything.