Prices are on the rise, inflation is very much in evidence, and lingering concerns over the future of SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, prompted one local family to get into action.
The Drader family, on Purcell Court off North Maag Avenue in Oakdale, started small … but their ‘little free food pantry’ has taken off, way beyond their expectations.
Darci Drader initially built a 3-by-3 pantry box that the family of five set up outside their home.
“It’s overwhelming in the best way,” Kaitlyn Drader said, adding that their triplet daughters, Parker, Dani and Reese, have also been instrumental in the effort.
The small pantry box went up toward the end of October and featured a simple sign: Take what you need, leave what you can.
And there has been just as much giving as taking.
“We’ve had a lot of really great donations,” Darci said, noting that people dropped off extra storage bins, a dresser, and more to help store and display the items. “The community has shown up.”
It’s not the only such effort in town – some businesses are accepting donations of food items to assist those that might be struggling as SNAP benefits lapse due to the government shutdown – but the Drader family said every bit of help is important right now.
“People are just so giving and they are sharing it on Facebook,” Kaitlyn said, assisting in getting their message about the pantry out there.
“Any donations are welcome,” added Darci. “It seems like the kids items go the quickest, we also have toiletries, laundry detergent, dish soap.”
The triplets are coming up on their eighth birthday and they have bought in to the concept of giving back as well, Darci and Kaitlyn said, wanting to stock the shelves and keep everything organized.
“It’s really cool to watch them be helpful,” Kaitlyn said. “And it’s beautiful to see our community come through.”
Canned goods, cereals, bread, even some gluten free items are available for the taking. If you need it, take it and if you can make a donation, that’s welcome too, Kaitlyn and Darci agreed.
With their girls in school at Cloverland Elementary, Kaitlyn said they know some families directly affected by the loss of the SNAP benefits.
“Everybody can relate in some way,” Kaitlyn added of having to deal with rising prices.
Ultimately, the family just wants to do their part in offering a helping hand to those in need.
“Food, and feeding your family isn’t political,” Kaitlyn said. “There should be no hungry children in this community, or anybody, really.”
Those in need of some food or household items, or those who want to make a donation, can stop by the Drader home at 1425 Purcell Court to drop or shop.
