Community‑supported pantry relies on volunteers to keep shelves stocked
By BCNews Staff Writer
A small outdoor pet food pantry located at the Southport City Gym, 211 N. Atlantic Avenue, has become an important resource for residents who need help feeding their animals. Installed in 2024 as an Eagle Scout project, the pantry was created to offer a simple, judgment‑free way for community members to access pet food during times of financial strain.
The pantry recently became the subject of online discussion after residents noted how quickly it empties. Some commenters expressed concern that food was being taken to feed stray and feral cats, while others emphasized that many pet owners rely on the pantry to avoid going without food themselves. The debate highlighted a larger issue: the demand for pet food assistance in Southport is outpacing the supply.
After seeing the conversation, a local resident visited the pantry and found it nearly empty. When returning two days later, the shelves remained bare, so the volunteer restocked the pantry on their own.
The ultimate goal of any voluntary stocked pet food pantry is simply to ensure animals, whether they are beloved household pets, strays, or ferals — do not go hungry.
The pantry’s placement outside the Southport City Gym allows for convenience for donations or pick up of pet food at any time. Volunteers stress that the pantry is entirely community‑supported and depends on regular contributions of dry and canned pet food to remain available for those who need it.
The Eagle Scout who built the pantry intended it to serve as a small but meaningful support system for anyone facing hardship. As usage continues to grow, volunteer donations will be a consistent need to keep the pantry stocked and available to anyone feeding a stray or their own cats or dogs.
Anyone wishing to contribute can place donations directly into the pantry at 211 N. Atlantic Avenue in Southport.
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