“Give What You Can, Take What You Need”
We have a Little Free Food Pantry at the front of Alden UMC. While the people of Alden Church make sure that the LFFP is stocked. We encourage the community to participate as a way of neighbors helping neighbors. The Alden LFFP is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Items included changes seasonally due to weather constraints. Anyone in need of food is encouraged to take what they need.
Who is Little Free Food Pantry for? LFP is for those who want and/or need to give. LFFP is for those not easily able to meet everyday food and personal needs. LFFP is for a hungry kid after school or a home cook who forgot to buy an onion. LFFP is for everyone.
How does Little Free Pantry differ from other food pantries?
- The LFP is small, limiting its quantity and variety. Bricks-and-mortar food pantries are better at meeting pervasive need.
- But some fall through the cracks. The LFP is a safety net.
- For example, many bricks-and-mortar food pantries require an application. Most have hours of operation. Anyone may access the LFP at any time.
- Additionally, bricks-and-mortar food pantries are service providers, those who use them, “clients.” LFP dissolves that professional boundary. Whether giving or taking, everyone approaches the LFP the same way, mediating the shame that accompanies need.
- LFP is a centrally-located reminder of our neighbors’ need that creates neighborhood space for exercising compassion, trust, and mutual aid.
Alden Community UMC 