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Franklin woman starts free self-service food pantry open 24/7

Posted at 12:51 PM, Feb 18, 2017
and last updated 2017-02-18 12:51:02-05

FRANKLIN, Ind. – Food insecurity is a major concern in Indiana, but one Johnson County woman is trying to help families put more food on the table.

The concept at Michelle’s Little Free Pantry is simple – those in need can access a pantry full of food 24 hours a day.

Owner Michelle Dahl said she first spotted the idea on Facebook and decided to create her own. The pantry is a self-service and Dahl doesn’t have to be present for people to use it.

“If you need these resources take them,” said Dahl. “Take a blessing, leave a blessing if you can.”

The single mother of five children believes no one can succeed alone.

“Just know that all the help that I have gotten has gotten me here today,” she said.

Joe McCauley said he found the cabinet-turned-pantry in the garbage and restored it, giving Dahl the space to create the pantry.

Free pantries, blessing boxes, and similar efforts aren’t just happening in Franklin – they’re popping up all over Central Indiana.

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