The Sylvan Lake Municipal Library's Little Free Pantry saw incredible community support throughout 2024.
Throughout the year, the Little Free Pantry received $12,874.70 in cash donations, library director Haley Amendt said.
"This is an increase of 115 per cent from last year's $5,978.42."
Since the Little Free Pantry started, cash donations have increased each year.
- In 2024 the Little Free Pantry received $12,874.70 in cash donations
- In 2023 the Little Free Pantry received $5,978.42 in cash donations
- In 2022 the Little Free Pantry received $3,613.70 in cash donations
- In 2021 the Little Free Pantry received $1,634.34 in cash donations
- In 2020 the Little Free Pantry received $2,492.34 in cash donations
- In 2019 the Little Free Pantry received $587 in cash donations
- In 2018 the Little Free Pantry received $529 in cash donations
- In 2017 the Little Free Pantry received $500 in cash donations
In addition to cash donations, the Little Free Pantry also received a significant amount of grocery donations in 2024.
To respect the privacy and dignity of users, of the Little Free Pantry the Library doesn't track usage. However, the library does monitor purchasing, which has increased year over year, Amendt said.
"Library staff also find themselves restocking the pantry more frequently, indicating greater demand."
The Little Free Pantry was first initiated in 2017 by Library staff member Jeri Wolf, who recognized a community need, Amendt said.
"As we move forward, the Library will conduct a community needs assessment and develop a new strategic plan, with hopes of formally including the Little Free Pantry. This will provide greater protection for the Pantry and allow the Library to allocate staff time more effectively."
"It's essential to remember that every hour of staff time is funded by taxpayers, so we must ensure we are meeting community needs," she added.
Another goal the Library has for the program in 2025 is to expand the program into 'Snacks in the Stacks,' a new program that will aim to provide healthy after-school snacks to local children from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on certain days depending on donations and demand.
"Many families are currently facing financial challenges due to rising grocery costs, making it difficult to provide nutritious snacks for their children. Our library seeks to alleviate this burden by offering wholesome snacks in a safe and welcoming environment," Amendt said.
"The Sylvan Lake Municipal Library is more than just a place for books; it's a vital space for children to gather, learn, and grow. By supporting the "Snacks in the Stacks" program, donors will help create a positive atmosphere for our young patrons, enabling them to stay focused and engaged during after-school hours."
For the Little Free Pantry the most requested items are usually the ones that are neither shelf-stable nor affordable, Amendt said.
"While our users can typically manage with $1 cans of soup or bags of pasta, there is a greater need for more expensive items such as milk, cheese, eggs, butter, fresh or frozen meat, fruits, vegetables, baby products, laundry supplies, and cleaning products."
"Gift cards for grocery stores or restaurants are also greatly appreciated, as they help accommodate users with special dietary needs and provide enjoyable experiences for families who may not usually afford a nice dinner out," she added.
The Little Free Pantry is open to everyone during library hours and users can also ask at the front desk about specific items in storage.
"Since we often need to limit the quantity of products available at one time to ensure fair distribution, we may have additional items in the back. We are happy to provide any available products upon request," Amendt said.
For people interested in donating it is important to note that donations of $20 or more are eligible for a charitable tax receipt.
"Monetary contributions can be made online at canadahelps.org by specifying that the donation is for the Little Free Pantry or the Snacks in the Stacks program; this will automatically generate a tax receipt for eligible donations," Amendt said.
For more information on the Little Free Pantry, individuals can check out the Sylvan Lake Municipal Library Facebook page, or website.
