Little Free Pantry helps those in need

By Joan Janzen

Eston's community is helping people struggling with rising food prices. Inside the local library, located at 218 Main Street, patrons will find the Little Free Pantry, a self-service food pantry for those in need.

It's available during regular library hours, which are from 2:00 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, and 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Librarian, Cassie Stocks is more than willing to lend a hand by picking up donation boxes at Central Plains Grocery store. Donations can also be dropped off at the library.

The pantry keeps stocked up through the generosity of community donations, but occasionally a group will conduct a food drive. The youth group at the Full Gospel Church recently had a food drive in town. Cassie noted that two youngsters recently requested to receive donations to the pantry, instead of birthday gifts. "They got a ton of stuff," Cassie said.

She estimated about ten families benefit from the pantry on a regular basis. "Because it's self-serve, moms can come in and pick up a few things for kids' lunches. No qualifications are required, but no one takes advantage of the free service," she said.

Eston's Little Free Pantry is well stocked and available for those who need extra food items in their kitchen cupboards.