In Davenport, Iowa, Tammara Yates has set up something special along Westerfield Road—a curbside pantry. This simple arrangement of food-filled totes brings hope to families struggling with hunger. Tammara stocks these bins daily with meal kits, snacks, and drinks, funding everything from her own pocket.
Her journey stems from personal experience. “I grew up on welfare and SNAP benefits,” she shared. After losing her daughter in 2012 and her mother on Christmas Day, the thought of helping others became her tribute to them. “I wanted to do something meaningful,” she explained.
Tammara doesn’t keep track of who takes the food. “It doesn’t matter if someone takes it who doesn’t need it. What matters is that it’s there for those who do,” she said. This approach highlights the importance of generosity. The bins might empty quickly, but she continues to restock them, teaching her children the value of compassion.
The response from the community has been encouraging. Many come by to take what they need, leaving the pantry almost empty at times. Tammara believes that even small gestures can spark kindness. “Just give what you can. If you can’t, share the word. Those who can will help,” she said.
Recently, many communities across the U.S. have started similar initiatives. As food insecurity affects millions, these grassroots efforts offer quick relief. According to a recent survey by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, over 10% of households faced food insecurity in 2021. Such statistics reveal the ongoing challenge many families face daily.
Tammara is now looking for weatherproof totes to keep her pantry running regardless of the weather. This small project has turned into a big lesson in kindness for her children and the community.
You can follow Tammara’s journey on her Facebook page here.
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