Eagle Scout project grows into community-run blessing box in Bristol, Tennessee

Eagle Scout project grows into community-run blessing box in Bristol, Tennessee

BRISTOL, Tenn. (WCYB) — A simple box filled with food, books and hope is making a big difference in Bristol, Tennessee.

What started as one young man's Eagle Scout project has grown into a community effort to help neighbors in need.

At Woodlawn Baptist Church in Bristol, Tennessee, a small wooden box is making a big impact. For Bristol native Dexter Barrett, 20, the idea came after years of seeing people who could use a helping hand.

"Originally came about I was in the youth program here started in middle school, and it kind of gave me the idea to put this blessing box here. There'd be a lot of people coming by, a lot of foot traffic, and it just sparked the idea to put a blessing box," Barrett said.

When Barrett began planning his Eagle Scout service project during his senior year in 2024, he turned that idea into reality.

"It took me roughly about six months from start to finish. I had to get a lot of the material at Lowe's. They thankfully donated the majority of it," Barrett said.

The box offers more than just food. It includes a pantry, a free library and a place to properly retire worn American flags.

"There's a lot of people that have a need for food. They can't afford the nourishment for their families, and this helps them to be able to select items that would be nutritious for them," Woodlawn Baptist Church Director of Missions, Brenda Harkleroad said.

The community keeps it going. Some days, the shelves are empty by the afternoon, but neighbors and church members quickly fill them back up.

"If someone in the community or our church sees it has a need to be filled, someone brings food and puts it in it. It usually stays pretty well stocked," Harkleroad said.

The church is currently asking for shelf-stable food, bottled water and easy-open items for people who may not have a can opener.

"Any kind of staple food items in case they are homeless that would be a big help," said Harkleroad.

What began as an Eagle Scout project has become a community effort, with every donation helping a neighbor in need.

"We're doing what God wants us to do by serving Him and making available to others to supply their needs," Harkleroad said.

"It's a pleasure of mine to be able to just help and still see it standing here," Barrett said.