Howard County Executive Calvin Ball recently joined the Community Action Council of Howard County (CAC) and local non-profit partners at the Rachell L. Gray (RLG) Community Foundation, Inc., to announce the launch of a new Community Refrigerator Program, dubbed ‘Pocket Pantries.’

From the county press release:

“Community refrigerators are a profoundly simple and incredibly generous concept, connecting our neighbors to one another to address hunger. Today, I’m thrilled to unveil our version of this dynamic model with the launch of three ‘Pocket Pantries,’ which will provide perishable and non-perishable food to anyone in need 24 hours a day, no questions asked. I want to thank the Community Action Council of Howard County, the Rachell L. Gray Community Foundation, Columbia Community Care and Glenelg United Methodist Church for partnering with us on this impactful initiative aimed at fighting food insecurity by bringing food resources closer to communities in need.”

This program was possible through a partnership between the County’s Office of Agriculture, CAC and community-based non-profits. Three Pocket Pantry locations now offer residents in need free perishable and non-perishable food items, 24/7, no questions asked. The County’s Office of Agriculture and the CAC will also assist the three local non-profit sponsors with providing food to stock the fridges, as needed.

The goal of the ’Pocket Pantry’ Program is to contribute to family and community wellness by reducing food waste, increasing food access, building community, promoting dignity and choice, and encouraging community sustainability.

To learn more about this program and similar programs visit the county website.