Community boxes filling a need for hungry residents

By Ginna Young

A couple years ago, a big need was seen by Cornell good Samaritan Kathy Swanson, who realized the community required more food than the local pantry could pro vice. So, she got permission from the city council and backing from a local charitable improvement group, and installed two community boxes on Main Street.

The glass-fronted boxes are unlocked at all times, with items on the shelves for people to help themselves and also house books. The premise is, take an item or leave one, if you’re able.

Located at the city park, and the corner of First and Main streets, the boxes empty as fast as Swanson fills them. Now that the weather has turned toward cooler temperatures, Swanson reminds everyone that canned goods cannot be placed in the boxes, as they will explode.

“Dry foods only,” she said. That includes cereal, powdered milk and even peanut butter, as it will not freeze. Swanson also asks that nonperishable items be left out of the donations, as they spoil.

If anyone is able to leave items, they are welcomed or they can give money toward the purchase of food to fill the boxes.

“Somebody has been putting groceries in there, which we’re very thankful for,” said Swanson.