Little Essentials Food Pantries: Available 24/7 to those in need

CHELAN - Chelan Valley Hope and the Lake Chelan United Methodist Church offer an opportunity for all those in need to stop by their free pantries to pick up essential food and hygiene products.  While each entity’s pantry is slightly different, their intent and diligence to keep these essential pantries stocked and available to the public is the same.

With many in the community in need of short-term assistance, the pantries provide a bridge for those waiting for their next paycheck or for someone passing through who may need a meal, or a toothbrush. Each operates on a “Take what you need, give what you can” principle, and exist largely through direct community donations of both shelf-stable food and personal hygiene products.

The Little Essentials Food Pantry located outside of Chelan Valley Hope at 417 S. Bradley Street, Chelan; is an open cabinet pantry stocked each night, Monday through Thursday.  The pantry is usually stocked with shelf-stable foods, basic toiletries, diapers, dog food/treats, and also features a little free library.  In the winter, organizers make an effort to supply coats, sleeping bags, gloves, and hats for those in need.  Donations can be dropped off directly in the pantry or contact Chelan Valley Hope, highest-need items being shelf-stable foods, easy-open cans, with foods being high in protein or carbohydrates.

The  United Methodist Church Little Essentials Pantry is a year-round open cabinet located outside of the Lake Chelan United Methodist Church at 206 N. Emerson, Chelan.  The pantry is stocked twice a week, and as needed, with shelf-stable foods, personal hygiene products, and occasional other essentials such as laundry soap. Donations can be dropped off directly in the pantry or contact the Lake Chelan United Methodist Church.