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Ferndale couple launches free little pantry for people in need

Posted at 10:03 AM, Oct 23, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-24 06:50:02-04

Sometimes people do little things that have a big impact. In Ferndale, a couple is hoping their new “little pantry” does just that.

The idea came from Lori Yates. She had watched little libraries pop up with notes to take a book, but she wanted to do something different. Instead of books, the “Little Pantry on Planavon” would be chock full of food and toiletries for anyone in need.

“So far the reaction has been positive,” said Jeff Yates, who spent a few weekends in the garage building the little pantry.

Yates said he found the dimensions online and it came together quickly. In addition to the box, there’s a Facebook page that has already garnered more than 100 followers. People have been commenting on what type of items they can stock the “little pantry” with, and planning meet-ups to drop items off at the Yates’ home.

“We have toilet paper, veggies, canned products,” said Yates. “You name it, and we’ve got it. And it’s all from people in our neighborhood."

The box is located on Planavon between Lewiston Avenue and Cambourne Street.

It didn’t take long for people to take notice. Nicole Finateri walks by the spot every day for work. When she saw it, she began to read the sign. It reads: “Take what you need, leave what you can.”

“It’s a good thing!” said Finateri, “It’s a positive thing, I like that.”

Yates said it brings the neighborhood a little closer together, but noted that it’s not surprising that people wanted to chip in.

“It’s just the type of area we live in,” said Yates. “People want to give back and make difference, that’s just how we feel here.”