Osseo Couple Turn Little Free Library into Food Pantry
People all across the metro area are turning Little Free Libraries into free pantries to help people struggling financially because of COVID-19. Georgie and Gerald Kiffmeyer put up a Little Free Library near their home in Osseo and promptly turned it into a free food pantry.
“I think there are a lot of hungry people around here. If you lost your job, got lots of bills, or kids to feed, it’s a tough time for people. That’s why we did it,” said Georgie Kiffmeyer.
The Kiffmeyers have a Little Free Library at their cabin up North and thought it would be a good idea to put one up in their front yard in Osseo. Gerald spent about three weeks crafting the pantry.
“Man, was it fun to make. We had to wait until the frost was out of the ground before we put the post in and set it in place,” he said.
The couple went to Aldi and Cub Foods to stock up. They have a shopping list going, so the pantry stays stocked.
“We tried to put the pasta in there and tuna, cans of soup, rice and some packaged items you can bake,” said Georgie. “We also have macaroni and cheese. I noticed that it was gone right away.”
Pantry says “Take What You Need, Leave What You Can”
The sign on top of the pantry says, “Free Food Shelf. Take what you need, leave what you can.”
Other neighbors are also adding items to the pantry.
The Kiffmeyers haven’t seen anyone officially use the pantry. But items are gone each day. The couple thinks people might be coming by after dark, which is okay by the couple.
“I’m glad it’s helping someone. I’m happy about that,” said Georgie.
You can find the Little Free Library Pantry at the corner of 7th Avenue North and 3rd street in Osseo.
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