Rebecca Palmer informed the Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety members this week that work is ongoing to finish work on bins for the Caring Cupboards initiative.
Palmer described the bins as an “emergency food pantry” for those in need that can be accessed at all times. Their placement at the Plymouth Fire Department and the Plymouth Police Department is still pending.
“The containers, the cupboards, are still being painted so you may have noticed they’re not out yet,” said Palmer. “It’s taking some time but it will be done well and right. The community has really stepped up. The body shop is doing it for free so it’s taking some time. The paint was donated.
Palmer added that a Caring Cupboard will be included in the Town of Bourbon after a resident requested placement at the Bourbon Police Department. The idea has spread nationally as well.
In the meantime, donations for the Caring Cupboard are being accepted. The bins would be stocked with canned meats, tuna pouches, canned fruits, instant potatoes, ready-to-eat soups, cleaning products, pet food, baby wipes, diapers, and cleaning wipes. She previously stressed that the bins will be monitored to check the stock and for any misuse. If vandalism or other malicious action occurs, the caring cupboard will be removed.
Palmer will be back before the board again in two months to give an update on how the Caring Cupboards program is doing once in operation.
