8-year-old turns little library into free food pantry for neighbors
By Yunier Martinez
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BURLINGTON, Vermont (WPTZ) — As reduced Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits continue to affect people across the region, one Burlington family has transformed a small neighborhood library into a free community pantry, all thanks to an idea from an 8-year-old boy.
The bright red wooden shed, built by Ollie Grant and his grandfather, originally served as a “little free library” filled with books for anyone to borrow.
However, during a school food and clothing drive this fall, Ollie learned that some of his classmates and neighbors were struggling with access to meals.
His mother, Laina Grant, said that simple moment prompted a bigger conversation.
“He explained that some kids were needing some extra support,” Laina Grant said.
Hearing that inspired Ollie to offer a solution. When asked how he could help, he suggested the family fill the little library with food.
“Because not a lot of people have food and we really need to help,” he said.
The Grants converted half the library into a free food pantry stocked with pasta, canned goods, and other nonperishables.
At first, the pantry went unnoticed until the family shared the idea on Front Porch Forum. Within days, the shelves were empty.
“So we put it on Front Porch Forum and in our neighborhood email. Then that day, it was empty,” Laina said.
Since then, the pantry has been refilled and emptied many times, sometimes within a single day.
The effort has sparked strong community support.
Laina Grant said they’ve received nearly 20 emails from neighbors praising Ollie’s kindness and offering to help restock the pantry. One resident even mailed the family $100 to buy additional groceries.
For the Grants, the project has become a way to teach generosity and gratitude, especially as Thanksgiving and the holiday season approach.
“We all sit around the table and say what we’re thankful for, and one of the things is always food,” Laina said. “The fact that he can give back to people, he’s always really thankful for that.”
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