Nora’s memory is providing food for those who need it

By Ginna Young If you’re running a little short on groceries between paychecks and can’t make it to a food pantry during operating hours, it’s OK, there’s a solution for that. Nora’s Cupboard, located at 26258 Cty. Hwy. M, in Holcombe.

The former soda cooler is filled with non-perishable goods, available to access 24 hours a day.

“Anybody can come take what they need or donate when they can,” said Kay Paulson, the creator of the cupboard.

There is also a QR code located on the cupboard, to electronically donate funds to help purchase food to keep it filled for those in need.

Paulson’s granddaughter, Nora, was killed in a car accident about 10 years ago, and after Paulson read about something similar someone was doing with take-andleave food cupboards, she knew she’d found a way to honor Nora’s memory.

“She was really a sweet little soul,” said Paulson. Because Paulson knew someone who had built a shed for her, she approached him to inquire about the cost of building a cupboard and told of her idea to provide food for those who need it. His answer was immediate.

“I’ll build it for free, if you do that,” said Paulson of his response. “It kind of took off from there.”

The first Nora’s Cupboard was located in Paulson’s yard, where she used to live, but as word spread of her mission, more cupboards popped up. There are now four locations – the one in Holcombe, Rice Lake, Spooner and New Richmond, with a fifth location planned for New Auburn.

Some people not only leave food in the cupboards, when able, but also leave diapers or toiletry products, and school supplies.

“All that’s good, too,” said Paulson. Every couple weeks, Paulson and her husband, Paul Smith, restock the cupboards, but are hoping to get more organizations involved, so food can be stored near the cupboards, for quick restocking.

“We just can’t make it all the time,” said Smith.

They also wouldn’t be opposed to more monetary help, as the couple purchases most of the groceries on their own. If anyone else has a location in mind, Paulson and Smith would be happy to get a cupboard installed there.

“We’re kind of looking to place a couple more,” said Paulson.