Back in 2018, Kevin Cope of the Lehigh Valley Business Group‘s Scouting Connections Committee reached out to local organizations to see who might want to host a blessing box. We at BAPL thought it was a great fit and were happy to work with Eagle Scout candidate Jacob Vosseller on the project. The cost of the boxes was paid for by Teen Works, a project of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.
So what is a blessing box? Blessing Boxes are basically small food pantries that operate on the honor system. Those in need can take some food or other items and those who want to donate have an easy way to do so. There is now one at both the Main Library and our South Side branch!
In addition to non-perishable food items, these blessing boxes will soon have socks donated by Bombas Sock Company. Did you know that socks are often the most needed but least donated item of clothing for shelters and other places serving people in need?
We hope to also stock the BAPL blessing box with toiletries and other similar items. As part of his Eagle Scout project, Jacob met with library staff, then built, and painted the boxes with the help of some fellow Scouts. Then he delivered the boxes to the library. He has also raised money and will keep them stocked for the next year. Great job, Jacob!
