The Amherst Little Free Pantry is now open at the Unitarian Universalist Church on Main Street in Amherst. The pantry -- located on the church's front portico -- is available 24 hours a day to those in need.
Pantry administrator Maria Ceraulo said there are no eligibility or residency requirements.
"We're not the food police. We trust people who have a need," Ceraulo said.
Ceraulo said the pantry is stocked with non-perishable food items and toiletries.
"Pastas, rice, beans, canned fruits and vegetables (are available), plus personal products such as toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper and diapers," Ceraulo said.
A grant from the Network of Religious Communities is helping to fund the pantry. The nearby Congregation Havurah is assisting the Unitarian Universalist Church in running the pantry.
Donations of food products and toiletries for the pantry are accepted Tuesdays through Fridays from 9am to 2pm.