Local "Blessing Box" Brings Community Together

 The "blessing box" is essentially a miniature food pantry.  There are a lot of others around the nation and the world.

The one at the corner of South Packard and East Squire Avenue has a message instead of a disguise.

"Take what you need, bring what you can, but above all be blessed."

That's the saying attached to every "blessing box." It is a box that is filled with food. The food then can be taken for free with no questions asked.

Jennifer Clark, owner of Jen’s Sweet Treats, found out about the “blessing box” on Facebook and immediately knew she wanted to help.

"The first day we put it out here, I would say three quarters of the items disappeared with in an hour,” said Clark.

Clark will come out to refill if needed, but she has realized that often her customers do as well.

Vicki Groomer started the idea, and it's catching on quickly. Overall, there are 101 “blessing boxes” including the one's in the  Philippines and Canada.

The one outside of Jen’s Sweet Shop in Cudahy was decorated by Cudahy High School Art Students is number 99.

Clark hopes number 102 will show up outside of her South Milwaukee location, as soon as she get approval.