Alliance, NE – A new Little Free Pantry has opened in Alliance, providing a simple, zero‑barrier way for community members to give or take food and essential items. The pantry is located outside the United Way of Western Nebraska office at 723 Flack Ave, on the north side of the building, and is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Little Free Pantry operates on a “take what you need, give what you can” model. There are no forms, no eligibility requirements, and no questions asked—making it an accessible resource for anyone experiencing food insecurity or needing basic supplies.
Earlier this year, Black Hills Energy reached out to United Way of Western Nebraska to form a partnership focused on addressing food insecurity in the community. Together, they launched this community‑supported initiative to create a direct and convenient way for residents and businesses to contribute food and household necessities.
The public is encouraged to help keep the pantry stocked with shelf‑stable food and essential items. The UNL Extension Office recommends the following donation options:
Suggested Pantry Items
- Dry goods: Oatmeal, macaroni and cheese, dried beans, rice and other whole grains, pasta, spices, popcorn, coffee, tea, boxed dry soups, sugar, and flour
- Individually packaged snacks: Boxes of raisins, granola bars, protein bars, fruit snacks, and juices
- Food not requiring kitchen preparation: Bread, nuts and seeds, dried fruit, granola, nut butters, cereal, applesauce, and pudding packs
- Toiletries: Feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, facial tissue, soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant
- Cleaning supplies: Dish soap, laundry detergent, and paper towels
Community members who need food or essential items are welcome to take what they need at any time.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment from United Way of Western Nebraska and Black Hills Energy to support neighbors and strengthen the Alliance community through compassion, dignity, and collective action. Additional Little Free Pantry locations are planned throughout the Panhandle and
United Way of Western Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that unites people and resources to build a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. Supporting 22 local nonprofit agencies and providing direct community impact services in the areas of youth opportunity, healthy community, community resiliency and financial security and reinvesting in Western Nebraska since their inception in 1945. For more information, visit www.uwwn.org.