Courtesy Photo Alpena High School Senior Kaelyn Roznowski smiles by a cart full of food to stock the new little food pantry that she opened on campus.

ALPENA — Alpena High School Senior Kaelyn Roznowski has opened a Little Food Pantry in the school’s front oval for anyone in need, at any time.

Roznowski was inspired to start the pantry after attending the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Washington Leadership Conference (WLC) held annually each summer in Washington D.C. Alpena FFA sends two members each year to the conference to build leadership skills, gain confidence, and learn how to make a positive impact.

At the conference, Roznowski learned about a “Living to Serve” plan, which encourages students to create projects that give back to their communities.

Roznowski stated, “Growing up in Alpena, I’ve seen kids from school face food insecurity. I wanted to do something to help them and give back to our community, and my idea at WLC turned into the Little Food Pantry.”

The pantry is stocked with canned and non-perishable food items collected from the “Can-Do Challenge.” This event was a food drive where Michigan FFA chapters built a farm scene from the collected items. Over 500 pounds of food were donated by FFA members, students, and community members. These items are now contributing to Roznowski’s project.

The Little Food Pantry is open to accept donations. For more information, contact Alpena FFA Advisor Melissa Smith at smithmm@alpenaschools.com or 989-358-5223.