Girl Scout troop aims high with ‘Little Pantry’ project

By Brandi Makuski

Girl Scout Troop 6111 is taking up a major project in an effort to help local kids.

The troop, comprised of only three young women, approached the Plover Village Board on March 21 with their idea to construct, then install, a series of Little Food Pantries across the village.

The scouts, all 12 years old, say the pantries will be located near local schools, and will be stocked with nonperishable food, certain hygiene items and new socks.

“Our pantry is different because it targets schools, so kids can get the items, not just adults,” said cadette Julia Caldwell, who attends Ben Franklin Jr. High, along with Jadyn Lutz.

“We chose this project because it’s a great way to help the community,” Lutz said.

The girls will construct, paint and install the pantries themselves, according to troop leader Michelle Caldwell, as donations allow and beginning sometime is year. The project will put the scouts in line for the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest a Girl Scout cadette can earn.

Little Free Pantries operate on the honor system, Lutz said, meaning items are intended for individuals in genuine need. While the troop would provide the first batch of goods, the idea, she added, was to encourage members of the public to donate when they are able.

Lutz, Julia Caldwell, and fellow Cadette Katy Cherney—who attends Plover/Whiting Elementary—made a five-minute pitch before village leaders, then passed out Girl Scout cookies.

Village Administrator Dan Mahoney said he was impressed with the scouts’ initiative.

“From a village standpoint, it’s not something we could do, but it’s a great project you girls are working on, and we commend you for that,” Mahoney told the girls on Wednesday. “I think it’s absolutely fantastic; it’s great to see young ladies thinking of the community.”

For more information on the project, or to donate, please contact troop leader Michelle Caldwell at 715.310.9545 or [email protected].