Prince of Peace dedicates first micro free pantry in Woodridge

On Sunday, Feb. 16, members of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Woodridge gathered outside to dedicate a micro free pantry for the benefit of the Woodridge Community at large.

The idea was introduced to Prince of Peace by member Nancy Chapdelaine. With her passion for the project, and approval by the council, the church moved ahead with the pantry.

The movement of micro free pantries is growing across the country and in the area as more people struggle with accessibility to food and food insecurities. The pantries are modeled on the little library concept and make nonperishable food and other basics supplies available to neighbors in need, 24/7. They operate on the principle "Take what you need, share what you can."

The POP Pantry is the first micro free pantry in Woodridge and is temporarily housed in a metal cabinet outdoors, under cover, near the front door of the church. With the help of the Scout troop, sponsored by Prince of Peace, the pantry will soon have a more permanent, and likely larger, cabinet.

If you would like to help support the pantry, donations of nonperishable food that can handle the cold, such as packaged mac n' cheese, granola bars, Ramen noodles, instant beverages and soups work best. Canned goods will not be available in the pantry until the weather improves as cans may fail in the cold. Please check that the food has not expired.

In addition, donations of unused, travel-size toiletries are also welcome. The POP Pantry will also offer "blessing bags" that contain basic toiletries for men, women, teens and kids.

Prince of Peace is located at 2600 W. 75th St., Woodridge. It is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. If you are looking for a warm and welcoming place to worship, Sunday services are held at 10 a.m. each week and Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. during the Lenten season. For more information, visit popwoodridge.org.