Lafayette High School alumnus have rallied together for a new free food pantry to aid area children experiencing food insecurity.

A ribbon cutting was held Wednesday by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce and Northwest Health Services to celebrate the opening of the Little Free Pantry at Washington & Market.

According to a news release from Northwest Health Service, Lafayette High School Alumnae, Hannah Barker and Brittnie Morgan were inspired by other local food pantries and set out to make a difference in the North Side.

“As a Lafayette graduate, I have a great deal of pride for the North Side of town,” said Brittnie Morgan, co-founder of the project. “Hannah and I wanted to create a safe place where kids can come get food if they’re hungry.”

The pantry is situated between two schools in St. Joseph’s North Side to attract foot traffic of hungry children in low income neighborhoods.

Cameron Corbet, Marketing & Communications Manager at Northwest Health Services said he went to school with Barker and knew his employer was well-positioned to help in the cause.

“Our North End Health Center is just blocks away from the new pantry, and there is a definite need for better access to food resources all over St. Joseph,” Corbet said. “When Hannah called us, there was no question that we would support the pantry.”    

Barker said she hopes the event will raise awareness for food resources in St. Joseph.

“You don’t have to go to bed hungry tonight. There are people who care about you,” Barker said.

For more information on how to get involved like and follow The Little Free Pantry – Washington & Market on Facebook. Those would would like to donate non-perishable food items or toiletries, are advised to visit the pantry in person at 1821 N. 3rd Street in Saint Joseph,