In Crofton, Kentucky, Chrissie Johnson has taken her little free library at Gordon Park and turned it into a food resource for those in need. With federal workers facing pay freezes and assistance programs struggling, Johnson felt a strong call to help her community.
“We take care of each other. My faith guides me in every effort,” she shared. Since 2019, she has maintained this library, filling it with books for all ages. But when the government shutdown hit, she quickly pivoted to offer food items instead. With contributions from locals, as well as her own family, the library transformed into a vital food pantry.
This isn’t the first time Johnson has turned her library into a food pantry. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she provided not only food but also essentials like toilet paper and laundry detergent. “I anticipated the need would be bigger this time,” she remarked. “But I knew the Crofton community would step up like they did during COVID.”
She has already received a variety of donations, from canned goods to fresh fruits, ensuring families have enough to get by. Although a resolution to the federal shutdown may be on the horizon, Johnson plans to keep the pantry stocked through the end of the year, if not longer. “Families will have bills, rent, and food to worry about, especially during the holiday season,” she said. Every little bit helps families get back on their feet.
Interestingly, community-driven initiatives like Johnson’s are on the rise. According to a recent survey from the National Self-Help Network, about 66% of Americans support local grassroots efforts during crises. People are realizing that small actions can create significant change. In a time when many feel isolated, these community hubs foster connections and support.
Johnson encourages others to continue giving in any way they can, helping to build a stronger community. Her library, now a beacon of hope, is located at 13735 North Old Madisonville Road, ready to assist anyone in need.
