GET INVOLVED
TODAY!
Inspire change in your community
STARTING UP.
How do I start my own Sparkle Pantry?
Location, location, location!
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How do I determine location?
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Safety first! Your location should not place anyone in an unsafe place, whether in an area of high crime or high traffic.
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Second, determine whether private property or public property best suits your vision. Follow appropriate channels to obtain permission and/or a permit and choose a back-up location in the event your request is denied.
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Third, determine whether neighbors will be supportive of the project. Will increased traffic to the site be viewed as a nuisance or invasion of privacy?
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Finally, Sparkle Pantries should be accessible to the public. If in an area where people travel by car, sites should be safely accessible by car with no impact on local traffic.
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How do I build a Sparkle Pantry?
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Feel free to replicate the original design. Or build a structure suited to your aesthetic preference and needs. Googling yields lots of content, including specs. If your Sparkle Pantry will be on another's property, share your plans with the property owner for his or her approval. Then, get crafty!
How do I secure the Sparkle Pantry?
The original Sparkle Pantry is secured to a 4x4 with a 4x4 bolt down, which can be purchased at any chain home improvement or hardware store. The 4x4 is cemented in place.
STOCKING.
How do I stock the Sparkle Pantry?
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The original pantry is stocked organically. Empty shelves are problematic only if no one is contributing. At that point, you might want to organize a group of friends, neighbors, co-workers, church-goers. Thirty of these could be assigned a day of the month to contribute, for example. Please note that irregular supply is an effective control keeping both consumption and traffic manageable. Irregular supply minimizes loitering as well.
What do I stock?
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Encourage your contributors to stock according to need. Discourage sharps (razors), chemicals, previously worn clothing (which adds bulk), or anything illegal. Generally, canned vegetables and proteins, personal care items, and paper goods go fast. Kid-friendly non-perishables, crayons, and inexpensive party favor items are great for Summer...school supplies for August!
If your stock does not turn over frequently, monitor cans for bulging and leaking, especially during extreme temperatures. Also, if your sparkle pantry will be stocked organically, you won't always be able to control what's inside. However, a daily site visit will allow you to maintain a safe, neat space.
What if I cannot stock food?
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Through this is aimed to alleviate food insecurity, we want to help families in all aspects. Toiletries, Personal Care Items, Stationery, etc.