Yvonne Brownlie, of Tapanui, said her idea of creating a food pantry in Tapanui seemed "obvious" due to the current economic climate.
"There is great need for sharing within communities at the moment, so it seemed obvious for Tapanui.
"We already have our fantastic food bank, but many people seem to find it hard to ask.
"With a pantry, people can come and go and leave and take as they please.
"The anonymity is appealing to those who may struggle to ask for help."
Mrs Brownlie began the process to create a pantry by asking the Tapanui RSA to have the pantry on their property, to which they agreed.
She then asked the local Blokes Shed in Tapanui for a quote to build the shed.
"I asked for a quote and they were very generous in building the pantry for free.
"Stuart Timber donated the timber for it and together we made it happen.
"I was very thankful to everyone who assisted in making the pantry happen.
"The Tapanui community is indeed lucky to have such supportive businesses and groups who are willing to make donations to their community and I offer a huge thanks to all."
It is sited on Bushyhill St at the rear entrance to the Tapanui RSA building.
So far, the pantry has been "well received".
"We have had donations of vegetables, tinned goods, pickles, jams and eggs so far and the pantry has been well-received.
"All of the goods in the pantry are available for anyone to select.
"I encourage everyone who has a surplus of any of these goods, including baking and kindling to please put these in the pantry for the benefit of others."
The pantry is facing the full evening sun at present but will be turned for more shade on the same site in due course.
