Our History

Since 1867, the Little Red Schoolhouse has been a cherished part of North Kingstown’s history. For generations, town residents have fondly recalled their time as students in the iconic Davisville building. Though its role as a school ended in 2011, the “Little Red Schoolhouse” found new purpose just two years later—as the home of the North Kingstown Food Pantry.

By 2012, it had become clear that the Pantry’s longtime home at the North Kingstown Methodist Church, where it had operated since 1981, could no longer keep up with the rising needs of the community. Recognizing this, our founder Bonnie Smith and a group of dedicated community members stepped in to help. Among them was Karla Driscoll, recently retired from the North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce, who suggested they form a committee to tackle the growing issue of food insecurity.

The committee, made up of leaders from the town’s business, professional, and political communities, began by reactivating the Pantry’s original documentation, establishing a new board, and drafting updated bylaws. They also launched a search for a new, cost-effective location. The historic Little Red Schoolhouse—vacant and in disrepair, but centrally located—emerged as a promising option.

After discussions with Town Council, the Town agreed to lease the building to the Pantry for five years at just $1 per year—contingent on the committee raising enough funds to bring the building up to ADA and fire safety standards. Thanks to a successful capital campaign, that goal was met.

Led by Pantry Vice President Richard Jacques, a team of dedicated volunteers recruited local contractors and skilled tradespeople who generously donated their time or made financial contributions to support the renovations. The project included a new septic system, complete electrical and heating upgrades, and much-needed structural repairs. The North Kingstown Fire Department pitched in by painting the entire interior, while volunteers worked tirelessly to clear out nearly 150 years of accumulated clutter and debris.

Today, the Little Red Schoolhouse proudly serves as the home of the North Kingstown Food Pantry and plays a vital role in the town’s Emergency Management Plan. Staffed by a passionate team of volunteers, the Pantry continues its mission of providing food and support to North Kingstown residents in need, carrying forward the legacy of a building that has served the community for over 150 years.