Anthony Kosel, an 18-year-old Macomb resident, has launched a community project to build two “little free pantries” stocked with food and essential personal items. His effort comes as SNAP benefits expired on November 1, leaving many families facing uncertainty.
Inspired by his previous work creating little free libraries through his FFA project in high school, Kosel wants to provide free access to necessities like food, hygiene products, sanitary supplies, paper goods, even birthday kits are included, complete with cake mix, candles and a soda.
“I’ve always been community minded,” said Kosel, a Macomb High School graduate and son of Sarah Kosel and Barry Woodford. “When I heard SNAP benefits were expiring, I knew I wanted to help by creating these pantries.”
Unlike his library project, which was funded by grants, this pantry initiative is a personal effort. Kosel, currently enrolled in the CNA program at McDonough District Hospital, has raised $700 so far on his GoFundMe page but needs more support to complete the project.
He has already spent $150 on two food runs and is actively seeking two locations to place the pantries.
“I’d like to thank all the donors who have supported me and the community. It means a lot to me and to the many people this will impact,” Kosel said.
If you are interested in having a pantry or want to donate or learn more, visit https://gofund.me/68bc17c25 or call Anthony at 309-210-1789.
