Sometimes, the community is the answer, and the solution can be so simple that even the kids know the answer.
A few middle-school-aged girls joined together by way of Girl Scout Troop 3177 of Selden were working towards their Silver Award, a project-oriented milestone as they prepare to graduate from their cadet status. Four girls, Kara Zappasodi, Trinity Barcia, Paige Renehan, and Andreya Baldwin make up this troop under the leadership of Ana Zappasodi. They are keenly aware, through personal experience and that of their peers, that more and more families are struggling to put food on the table. Starting from their own knowledge, they then did some research on food insecurity right here in their community, gathering information on food pantries and what has become known as Blessing Boxes. A Blessing Box, similar to widely known Free Libraries, are cabinets placed outside where people can leave random groceries in the cabinet and anyone can simply take what they may need.
These girls had to come up with their idea, plan the build of the box, fundraise to pay for the materials for the box, find property to place the box, and commit to ensuring it stays cared for and stocked. Two of the Girl Scouts attended and used their connection to Pastor Scott Kraniak of Centereach Bible Church on North Coleman Road in Centereach to ask permission to place the box there in front of the church. Centereach Bible Church has a food pantry inside but this provides for someone who may not feel comfortable to come inside or for someone who has come when the church is not open.
To raise the funds, they sold their well known Girl Scout Cookies at a unique location, the train station. They get to use some of that money for their projects. To add to the fund, they made and sold bracelets and hair scrunchies. The bracelets had various words on them like “Inspire” or “Believe.” They raised about $400.
The girls brought in Trinity’s father, Rich, to guide them in the construction of the box. He oversaw them as they purchased, cut, assembled, and painted the wood to build the Blessing Box. It is painted white with glass doors and complements the little white Bible Church building. On the glass doors, the words read “Take what you need…Leave what you can.”
In speaking with the girls about ‘the why’ behind choosing a Blessing Box as their project, Andreya stated “we made this box because we know that many people are unemployed. And even more people need help with everyday needs.”
Kara added “We hope that kids get the food they need”
Paige summed it all up with “This box will bring smiles, comfort and happiness to those in need.”
Well done girls, well done!
To the many people who see the issues and struggles of those around you and you genuinely hope someone will help, follow the lead of these impressive young ladies. That someone may be you!
