So much hinges on food access

Little libraries have been popping up all over the country, creating opportunities to share no-longer-needed books and to pick up new ones for free. Expanding on the idea and addressing the issue of food insecurity, Driftwood Public Library and Lincoln City Parks and Recreation have partnered to bring the first Little Food Pantry to Lincoln City.

A “little ribbon cutting” is happening this Friday, Oct. 21, with invited guests including members of the Lincoln City Council, the Lincoln City Food Pantry staff, the Parks & Recreation Board, Lincoln City Chamber of Commerce and RECKids.

The mini pantry movement is a grass-roots, community idea to address immediate and local needs. Mini pantries help feed neighbors, nourishing neighborhoods.

The local pantry was the idea of library intern Jake Meyer, who as part of his internship was tasked with taking what he learned and tying it into the community somehow. He spent some time touring Lincoln City with library staff and asking questions before deciding that a Little Food Pantry would be of great benefit.

“We are always looking for new ways to meet the needs of our community and we are so pleased that Jake chose to fill this particular need with his connected learning project.” Library Outreach Services Coordinator Star Khan said. “We are proud to be a part of the solution to food insecurity.”

The pantry will be located near the front door entrance of the Lincoln City Community Center, next to the existing Little Library.

Friday’s ribbon cutting begins at 10 am at the Lincoln City Community Center, 2150 NE Oar Place.