Youth leaders set up eco pantry

CEBU, Philippines —  As more community pantries are sprouting all over the country and even abroad, the Sangguniang Kabataan of San Nicolas Proper in Cebu City has leveled up its drive to an “ECOmmunity” pantry.

With the initiative, the group’s concerns for the environment and for the needy are rolled into one.

The organizers barter trash, specifically empty plastic bottles, for food.

Three empty water bottles of a 500ml, for example, is equivalent to a pack of instant noodles, while five pieces of which is equivalent to two instant noodles or a can of sardines.

For 10 pieces of a 500ml empty bottle, it will be equivalent to a kilo of rice or whatever goods available.

Although this activity is initiated by the SK of San Nicolas Proper under Jessica Resch, its barangay captain Clifford Jude Niñal also supported the said community panty set up outside the barangay hall.

Earlier, Niñal said he prefers giving the goods directly to the poor or the homeless, if not organize a feeding program.

However, after seeing the SK’s concept of the “ECOmmunity” pantry, he readily supported it.

“Mas maayo ni kay para mahipos ang mga nagkalat lang nga mga plastic bottles sa mga dan. Maayo pud ning ila,” said Niñal who is also ensuring that everyone is safe and that health protocols are observed.

Niñal said it’s up to the SK Federation on what to do with those collected empty bottles.

Niñal also asked kind-hearted individuals to donate whatever extra food they have for the needy.

The community pantry was pioneered in Maginhawa, Quezon City to help those people in dire need. It was organized by Ana Patricia Non. — KQD (FREEMAN)