Miller installs mini-pantries for Eagle Scout project

Hunter Miller (right) stands with Shelly McFadden at a mini-pantry he installed at the Care Net Pregnancy Center. Miller has built six new pantries between Greencastle, Bainbridge and Roachdale.

Courtesy photo

Thanks to the efforts of a local Boy Scout, those facing hardship in Greencastle and two other Putnam County communities have more places where they can find food.

Over the past few months, Hunter Miller, a member of Troop 99 and currently a sophomore at Culver Military Academy, has been building, installing and stocking mini-pantries as part of his Eagle Scout project.

The new pantry locations include Greencastle Presbyterian Church, Bainbridge Christian Church, Roachdale Christian Church, Black Lumber, Sherwood Christian Church and the Care Net Pregnancy Center of Putnam County.

“Due to the coronavirus pandemic, food accessibility has become a problem for many, and I am glad to be able to help fill this need in our community,” Miller said. He is also encouraging community members to “Give what you can; take what you need.”

Canned meats, cereals, soups, healthy snacks, instant meals and other shelf-stable foods are best, as well as fruits and vegetables that can keep. Toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, deodorant and other toiletry items are also needed.

Other local mini-pantries are located at Fillmore Christian Church, Gobin United Methodist Church, Conspire Contemporary Craft, Greencastle Christian Church, Phil the Need, First Baptist Church and Cloverdale United Methodist Church.

Miller wishes to thank Black Lumber, Headley Hardware and Sunset Ink for their assistance with materials. Proceeds from the 2020 Virtual 5K Walk/Run for COVID-19 Relief also went toward the project.