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A resolution honoring Patricia Elkins of the FreeStore.
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WHEREAS, Patricia "Pat" Elkins was one of the founding members of the FreeStore, a small community cooperative that freely exchanges donated new or pre-used goods among neighbors; and
WHEREAS, for the last ten years, Pat has helped grow the FreeStore. In 2018, she became the first paid member of its all-volunteer team. Over the last five years, she has helped move the FreeStore from twenty openings a year to weekly openings every Saturday; and
WHEREAS, since its inception, Pat has helped circulate over 50,000 items through the FreeStore and served over 1,300 families; and
WHEREAS, she has created partnerships with Nashville Food Project, Shower Up, Whole Foods, Bell Garden, One Gen Away, Community Resource Center, and Nashville Diaper Connection, among many others; and
WHEREAS, Pat was essential in helping the FreeStore stay open during the pandemic. By pivoting to making grab & go bags and being resourceful in finding and navigating new spaces after the FreeStore had to vacate their long-term space at Edgehill United Methodist Church, Pat has helped the FreeStore stay open and accessible to residents, not only in Edgehill but across Nashville; and
WHEREAS, currently, the FreeStore serves between 50 and 70 families every week from its new home at Arlington United Methodist Church located at 1360 Murfreesboro Pike; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council is grateful for her dedication to the FreeStore and the impact that Patricia Elkins has had on Nashville and Davidson County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as honoring Patricia Elkins for her contributions to the FreeStore and Nashville and Davidson County.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville ...
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