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What started as a humble and kind initiative has now multiplied across and outside Metro Manila.

The community pantry that first emerged on Maginhawa Street in Quezon City has inspired a lot of people to adopt the same idea to spread the spirit of bayanihan.

In case you missed it, the community pantry concept that made headlines recently intend to help those who are in need by offering food items such as fruits, vegetables, canned goods, noodles, among others, for free.

The one on Maginhawa Street features a simple two-tiered bamboo cart that contains grocery items.

Passersby can take whatever they need from the shelf for free.

On top of the shelf hangs a message that says: “Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan.”

Since last week, similar initiatives have popped up in several locations including Concepcion Uno, Marikina; Bacoor, Cavite; Karuhatan, Valenzuela; Los Banos, Laguna; P. Noval, Manila; Dalandanan, Valenzuela; Pinyahan, Diliman, Quezon City, Sampaloc, Manila; Parang, Marikina; Sucat, Muntinlupa; Naga, Bicol, Caniogan, Pasig; Tanza, Cavite; Apalit, Pampanga; Barotac Viejo, Iloilo; San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, Sta. Cruz, Laguna, among many others.

For those who are thinking of setting up a community pantry on their street, Ana Patricia Non, the brains behind the noble initiative, has posted a step-by-step guide on Facebook to help you get started.

Send out the bat signal

TIP: Ask family or neighbors if they want to help or know anyone who wants to. Set up a group chat (GC) and make sure these are people who want to help out actively, too. You might also think of posting a call on your Facebook or other social media.

List down what you need

TIP: Start an inventory either via Excel or paper. Aside from the food you want to share, write down the materials you need and the people who have expressed the desire to share or help out.

Find a spot that has a lot of foot traffic

TIP: Pick a location that's accessible to you or your group. If you live in a high-traffic area, outside your own home might be good. You will also need an address to share for anyone interested in sharing.

Set up

TIP: Use whatever you and your friends have. An old shelf, shoe rack, or boxes as makeshift tables are good to start with. Put up a sign that explains the community pantry. Be creative! Invite people to take what they need and give what they can. Tell people about it and don't forget to translate.

People who plan to set up their own community pantry can also get in touch with Ana Patricia's team for guidance.

For those who want to donate goods, it is advised to check your respective areas first if there's an existing community pantry already to save time and effort.

For more inspiring stories like this, head to GMA Lifestyle's page.