MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – Marshfield has embraced an innovative and compassionate initiative to combat food insecurity through the installation of Little Free Pantries (LFPs). These community-driven boxes function similarly to Little Free Libraries, but instead of books, they are stocked with non-perishable food items, hygiene products, and paper goods for anyone in need. The simple yet powerful mission: Take what you need, give what you can.
The Little Free Pantry concept began nationally as a grassroots movement in May 2016, when Jessica McClard launched the first Little Free Pantry in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Her vision was to address food insecurity by creating easily accessible locations where neighbors could support one another without judgment or barriers. The idea quickly grew, inspiring similar initiatives across the U.S. and globally.
Christ Lutheran Church has been spearheading the effort locally, with Marshfield’s Little Free Pantries made possible through the collaboration of local organizations and community leaders. David Murphy, President of Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union (MMCCU), helped get the credit union involved in this effort.
“We wanted to assist in addressing food shortages within the community,” said Murphy. “Working families can’t always make it to the available hours at our local food banks, and sponsoring the pantries helps address the availability dilemma. These units can be accessed anonymously and provides items to help a family fuel their next meal.”
MMCCU purchased two units and will be working through Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, south of Marshfield, in building and prepping these units for distribution.
The initial locations include:
- Christ Lutheran Church (1208 W 14th Street)
- Marshfield Area United Way (612 S Cherry Avenue)
- Faith Lutheran Church (207 S Cherry Avenue)
- MACCI (700 S Central Avenue)
There are also plans to add a fifth location in the southeast part of the city.
How It Works
The Little Free Pantry belongs to the entire community. Located on the properties of partner organizations, these modest cabinets are self-serve and available 24/7. They provide immediate relief to those who might be unable to get to the store, need assistance stretching their food supply until the next paycheck, or simply forgot an essential item.
For those who wish to give:
- Place unexpired food, hygiene items, or paper goods inside the pantry.
- Focus on items you would want to receive and consider purchasing duplicates of what your own household uses.
- Remember, no gift is too small—every contribution helps.
For those who need help:
- Take only what you need, knowing the pantry is here to serve everyone in the community.
How You Can Support the Little Free Pantries
- Donate: Stock the pantries with food and other essential items.
- Spread the Word: Like and share the Little Free Pantries of Marshfield Facebook page to increase awareness.
- Get Involved: Share this initiative with your school, church, or organization.
- Volunteer: Care for the pantries by checking stock, tidying them, and adding new items.
For questions or to arrange a presentation about the Little Free Pantries, contact Christ Lutheran Church at 715-384-3535.
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Author: News Desk
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