Tuesday was “Giving Tuesday,” an initiative that balances the spending and shopping season which begins on Black Friday.  

So as Christmas rounds the corner, local churches continue their effort in providing blessing boxes for any who needs them.  

Blessing Boxes—large, birdhouse-like boxes filled with nonperishable food and toiletries—are anonymous food pantries, open to all who need and for all to give.  

“Whoever needs it— take what you need and leave some for others,” said Dianne Lorenz from the Bedford County Democratic Women.  

The group partnered with Scott’s Chapel United Methodist Church, at 940 Morton St. in Shelbyville, to sponsor a Blessing Box for the surrounding community. Both Lorenz and Scott’s Chapel Pastor Virginia Yeargins had ideas to begin a blessing box. Approaching each other, Yeargins suggested they “go in together.”  

So, in mid-October a box was set up. Now, the Democratic Women and church help keep it stocked well with grocery donations from both organizations. Lorenz said she goes twice a week to make sure the shelves are stocked with cans with easy-to-open pull tabs and other nonperishable dry goods.  

It’s a helpful initiative, especially around the holidays.  

“We’re just hoping that people will have the food that they need and have access to it easily,” said Lorenz.  

That easy access and anonymity have helped blessing boxes grow in popularity. You can find another box at the Bird Street Church of Christ, located at 428 Bird Street.  

Again, the boxes are for anyone who needs them and for anyone who wants to give.