The Little Free Pantry
By
Kathleen Ridihalgh, Office Administrator at Northlake Lutheran Church in Kenmore
This last October, Pastor Anja Helmon blessed the Free Little Pantry that now stands open to all on NE 185
th
Street near the driveway of Northlake Lutheran Church in Kenmore. This is the first of its kind in the city of Kenmore. About a year in the making, dedicated volunteers worked to bring the pantry idea to reality. What a joy to be part of neighbors helping neighbors.
Getting the word out to neighbors who can help stock it, as well as those in need who can take from it, has been our main goal. Pastor Anja frequently updates social media outlets with current inventory, she worked with Sound Transit to supply free bus/light rail/Sounder vouchers, and the Bothell/Kenmore Reporter published a story about it.
“We hear on Sunday morning that our expectation is that we love our neighbors and take care of them,” Rick Heinbaugh was quoted in the Reporter story. “This isn’t just saying a prayer for them, this is doing something for them.” We hope this little pantry fills that expectation for a long time to come.
The Little Pantry now has regular visitors who provide contributions and/or make use of what is offered.