Smiths Falls residents and organizations are being asked to consider hosting community food pantries on private property.
The town’s Equity For All Committee and Food Insecurity Working Group say the small, neighbourhood-based pantries could help improve access to food for people who need support.
The idea follows a simple approach: take what you need and give what you can. Residents, businesses, faith groups, service clubs and community organizations can all take part.
Anyone hosting a pantry would need the property owner’s permission and must register it with Southeast Public Health. Hosts would also be responsible for following food safety requirements, posting clear donation guidelines and checking the pantry regularly.
Organizers say community participation is important to keeping the pantries stocked, clean and available.
The initiative is one way Smiths Falls is exploring local solutions to food insecurity while encouraging neighbours to support one another.
More information about food programs and resources is available through the Town of Smiths Falls website, smithsfalls.ca.
