Celeste decided to paint the pantry since more families are finding themselves needing access to food. During COVID-19, many have lost their jobs or have been furloughed putting a strain on household budgets. She says, “I wanted to paint imagery that would make people smile. The ballerina bees and their whimsical nature was the perfect choice.”

City of Eugene Cultural Services worked in partnership with Burrito Brigade, local artists from the Urban Canvas roster, local carpenters and community members to create 5 new little free pantries around town. The Little Free Pantry (LFP) seeks to support an immediate and local need for food and other essential hygiene products. Little Free Pantries bring neighborhoods together and bridge barriers for those who can’t travel long distances to get free food. The concept started in 2016 when Jessica McClard, a mom in Fayetteville, Arkansas, was inspired by the Little Free Libraries she saw popping up all over her town. There are now 600+ Little Free Pantries around the world. Burrito Brigade started making its Little Food Pantries in August 2018.