The Little Free Pantry at the Weyburn Public Library didn't get the influx expected during last week's Fall Book Sale event, the incentive for which was an entry into a WPL swag draw for anyone contributing a non-perishable food item.
Branch Manager Dawn Silver said the initiative, whether due to timing or excitement for the event, was a non-starter.
While the pantry isn't new, and until recently it had been seeing regular contributions for the past year.
"We appreciate the small companies that have been helping us out, but I think they've moved on to another charity at this point. So we really are in trouble. We were getting stuff through Amazon and the company was sending us regular shipments and it was just brilliant. But I think they've probably gone on to something else."
The pantry is located discreetly along the back wall of the library to enhance privacy, and it's set up without face-to-face, food-request format to ensure nobody goes without what they need to have meals.
Silver said items they love to see stocked once again, with a list posted by the pantry.
"Canned beans are very important because that's a good protein source and it's quite tasty, and you can dress them up. Staples like canned soups and tinned fish and things like that. Those staples are really important. Packaged individual servings of fruit like peaches and those little cups, are always really desirable. Personal care items as well."
The list: peanut butter, canned foods, juice boxes, spices, soup packets, dry pasta, pasta sauce, crackers, kitchen staples, granola bars, baby food, baby formula, shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, toothpaste, brushes/combs, shaving cream, deodorant, body wash, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, diapers, toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, laundry detergent, and sponges.
Entries for the swag draw are still being offered as items come in, and Silver said the draw will be made at a later date.