MEMPHIS, Tenn. — An 11-year-old boy in Collierville is fighting food insecurity by distributing small food packages in various Memphis communities.
“Well, we’re setting up these pantries all around town with nonperishable items,” said Jack Knight, the 11-year-old. “As long as you’re helping people, there’s no bad idea. As long as you’re helping people and inspiring others.”
More than 140,000 people in Shelby County face food insecurity, and 20% of them are children, just like Jack. He says that statistics played an enormous part in his desire to make a change.
“The idea is to get the pantries where people can donate, but also take for those that are in need,” said Alex Knight, Jack’s father.
The 5th grader and his parents have plans to fill the cabinets throughout the city with the goal of easing concerns of where families’ next meals are coming from.
When it comes to the food pantry, it’s simple. Find what you can and take what you need.
“Well, you see people not having the resources they need that they should obviously have. I think that needs to be solved,” Jack said.
Currently, Jack and his father are working to add more locations to come next month. As he learns the importance of being a helping hand, he’s learning how much it means to advocate for others
“This isn’t just a problem adults have to fix; children can too, and I hope he motivates other kids,” Alex said.
“Well, sometimes, we can do more than adults,” Jack said. “Because I feel like we have a wider reach and we can inspire more people.”
The First Help Pantry is located at 164 Washington Street in Collierville.
More information can be found here.