Bay Shore-Brightwaters Library Collecting For New Mini Food Pantry

BAY SHORE, NY — The Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library is starting up a mini food pantry.

Katie McIntyre, head of Children's Services, said the idea came out of a Suffolk County Advisory Board on Child Protection meeting focused on creating new community-based, grassroots initiatives beginning within the Brentwood and Bay Shore communities.

"One major topic that came up was food insecurity," she told Patch. "There are many food pantries around, but the hours don't always coincide with families who are working. People need access in the evenings or on the weekends too."

The idea of a food pantry at a library is also gaining traction nationwide, she said.

"I have seen other local libraries, such as Lindenhurst and Sayville, in recent years start their own 'Little Free Food Pantries' — kind of modeling the 'Little Free Libraries' that we often see at walking paths or recreational spots like parks and beaches," she said. "The thought was since we are open more hours, we can be accessible to people after their working hours are done."

The plan is to launch the pantry by January.

"The furniture and signage is ready in the lobby," McIntyre said. "We are now working on collecting non-perishable food, baby items and paper products."

The library is relying on the generosity of the community, and they don't think they're over-confident.

"We have seen great results with our annual Mitten Drive, Project Toy Drive and our year-round Clean Cabinet Drive,'" she explained. (The Clean Cabinet contains sample size hygiene products available in the library's lobby for anyone who might need toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant or soap.)

To help, bring donations to the Circulation Desk in the library, 1 South Country Road, Brightwaters, NY 11718. Make it a habit: check out a book, leave a bottle of maple syrup or a box of rice!

By the way, the library is also collecting mittens, hats, scarves and gloves for its mitten tree. Hang your donation on the tree — it's in the Children's Department.

Library Hours

(hours subject to change)

• Monday - Thursday 9:30AM-9PM
• Friday 9:30AM-5PM
• Saturday 9:30AM-5PM
• Sunday (Oct-May) noon-4PM