BOISE, Idaho — A Boise family is helping those in need in their neighborhood, with a novel idea. They built a small free food pantry near their home for those in need. So far, the project has been a big success! It was inspired by their young son Miles. 

Miles Herndon recently celebrated his third birthday, but he didn’t have a traditional birthday party. Instead of gifts, his guests were asked to bring canned food for the food pantry.

“I hope it grows, and as they get older they will see what an impact they’ve made.  “

Miles’ mom, Macy Miller, says her kids’ birthday parties are all about giving back. 

“Birthdays are a time of giving, and we don’t need that much stuff. We don’t need the amount of gifts that we get, so we were trying to find ways to direct the kindness to where it was more needed,” Miller said. “This year Miles wanted to build something. So that’s what we did for his third birthday.”

The family built a Little Free Pantry for their neighborhood with a $40 budget and using recycled materials. After picking up an old cabinet, some wood, and paint, the family went to work. Miles enjoyed building the pantry with his mom, dad and big sister Hazel. 

The pantry stands next to a community garden at 30th and Jordan streets, two blocks south of State Street in Boise, for anyone in need. 

“Take what you need, leave what you can. It’s just giving. Everyone’s got their times of need,” Miller said.

The family keeps it stocked with canned food, baby items, and other necessities. Their neighbors also pitch in for supplies whenever they can. 

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