BURLINGTON, Vt. —

As reduced Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits continue to affect people across the region, one Burlington family has transformed a small neighborhood library into a free community pantry, all thanks to an idea from an 8-year-old boy.

The bright red wooden shed, built by Ollie Grant and his grandfather, originally served as a “little free library” filled with books for anyone to borrow. Advertisement

However, during a school food and clothing drive this fall, Ollie learned that some of his classmates and neighbors were struggling with access to meals.

His mother, Laina Grant, said that simple moment prompted a bigger conversation.

“He explained that some kids were needing some extra support,” Laina Grant said.

Hearing that inspired Ollie to offer a s

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