Within a year of the first installation of the Shared Shelf, we at Trim Hunger have learned its impact on the community. It’s been so overwhelming, Trim Hunger founder Josif Wittnik found himself back in class. He visited students at Franklin Elementary School in Appleton to say one simple thing: “Thank you for making a difference.”
Josif wanted the students to know how deeply moved he was by the handmade signs they have created for Trim Hunger’s first Shared Shelf that sits right outside the school building. Every time someone opens the doors of the little free pantry outside the school, they are greeted with messages of hope, kindness, and understanding.
Trim Hunger’s Shared Shelf is a little free pantry that is accessible 24/7 for anyone experiencing food insecurity. The shelves are stocked with essentials such as rice, pasta, soups, sauces, cereal, and canned proteins.
“It’s okay to ask for help”
During his visit, Josif met with fourth- and fifth-grade members of the student council and shared a story about stopping by the Shared Shelf on a bitterly cold day. When he opened the pantry doors, he discovered something unexpected.
“Never in a million years would I have expected to see the amazing signs that I saw inside the Shared Shelf,” he told the students.
The signs carried messages such as:
- “Take what you need.”
- “It’s okay to ask for help.”
- “We love you.”
- “You are perfect.”
On the day of Josif’s visit, the students were busy creating a new batch of signs for the Shared Shelf. He told them they were “big-hearted stars” and wanted them to know how much their efforts matter.
Josif also asked the students how it feels to contribute food and encouraging messages to the pantry.
Rebecca shared, “I feel happy because we’re helping people in need. But it’s also sad seeing the empty shelves because it reminds us that a lot of people can’t afford food these days.”
Leah added, “Filling the food pantry makes me feel closer to my community.”
The success of the Franklin Elementary Shared Shelf has already inspired growth. A second Trim Hunger Shared Shelf has been installed at McKinley Elementary School, and plans are underway to add several more throughout the Appleton Area School District when classes resume this fall.
Stay tuned! Ttogether, we’re building a community where everyone has access to food, hope, and support.