Blessing boxes, a familiar concept in many communities around the country, have come to Pocahontas County. Community Connections, the lead prevention agency for Region 6, which serves 11 West Virginia counties, including Pocahontas County, led the way to get the Blessing Boxes placed at area libraries with the help of many generous community volunteers. So far, the mini-pantries are located at McClintic (pictured), Linwood, Green Bank and Durbin libraries. There is still a need for volunteers to help erect a Blessing Box at Hillsboro Library. Anyone in need is encouraged to help themselves to the food and other items. Cheryl Jonese, the Partnership Success Coordinator for the Pocahontas County Prevention Coalition, said that, in addition to non-perishable food, the public can find information on substance use prevention and abuse at the Blessing Boxes, along with the phone number for a 24-hour-a-day hotline for assistance with substance and abuse issues – 1-844-HELP-4WV. Members of the community are asked to please help keep the Blessing Boxes stocked so that we can support our neighbors who are in need. L.D. Bennett photo
