L.C.’s Pizza & Subs has long been a local staple for fresh pizza, sub sandwiches and more. The restaurant has been in the Frith family for three generations—the L and C in the name come from owner Jason Frith’s parents, Les and Cindy, who founded the establishment in 1986. But this restaurant in Freeport feeds the community far beyond the walls of its brick-and-mortar location.
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, United Way Emerald Coast approached the restaurant with the idea to set up a food pantry outside their business. Jason and his wife Nikki readily agreed and have continued The Little Pantry ever since. “We know what it’s like to go through a hard time, and what it’s like to need help but be too embarrassed to ask for it,” says Nikki Frith.
The Little Pantry, located outside L.C.’s Pizza & Subs at 901 St. Highway 20 East, is open to the public 24 hours a day, providing supplies as well as anonymity for those who need it. The Friths diligently maintain it, ensuring it is always well-stocked. It is frequented so often they replenish it almost every other day.
When restocking becomes a challenge, they turn to the community for assistance. “Some have donated little bags filled with travel-size toothpaste and shampoo, soap, laundry soap…anything that will help out,” says Frith. Anyone can donate nonperishable items at any time as long as the pantry is kept neat and organized.
Donors can bring supplies directly to the pantry, drop off at the restaurant, or call (850) 835-2122 for details.
“It helps people who don’t have that meal for one night,” says Frith. “We’ll do anything to help out.”
Salvation Army of Okaloosa and Walton Counties