Ron’s Blessings Box

Built locally in Hartville, Missouri.

Ron’s Blessings Box is a locally built example of how simple materials and community effort can create reliable neighborhood food access.

The design was created by Ron, an 82-year-old Vietnam War Veteran and one of the founders of GOTURSIX, who continues to contribute his time, skill, and leadership to community projects that support neighbors across Wright County.

Designed as a weather-protected cabinet, the box includes four interior shelves, full doors, and a raised base to help keep items clean and dry year-round. Its compact footprint allows it to be placed near businesses, community spaces, or neighborhoods where neighbors can easily contribute or access food.

Each Blessing Box becomes part of a shared system sustained by the community itself — stocked by neighbors, supported by local businesses, and maintained by volunteers.

Typical capacity
• 60–90 canned goods
• 30–40 boxed items
• hygiene and household supplies

Typical build cost
Approximately $70–$100 in materials

Sponsor a Blessing Box

Local businesses and community members can help expand the Blessing Box network across Wright County by sponsoring materials or hosting a location.

Sponsors help create simple, visible access points where neighbors can contribute and share food locally.

Reach out to team@gotursix.org

See the Growing Blessing Box Vision in Wright County

Ron’s Blessings Box: Materials List

Build Components

Cabinet Structure

  • 2 pieces 1" × 12" × 46" side panels

  • 1 piece exterior plywood 24" × 43½" back panel

  • 2 pieces 1" × 12" × 24" top and bottom shelf

  • 3 pieces 1" × 12" × 22¾" interior shelves

  • 2 pieces 2" × 4" × 19" floor supports

Doors

  • 2 pieces 1" × 10" × 40" doors

  • 2 pieces 1" × 2" × 40" door trim

Roof

  • 1 triangular roof trim piece

  • base 24"

  • height 12"

  • sides 17"

Hardware

  • 4 door hinges 4" × 4"

  • 2 door handles

  • 1 small barrel lock

  • 1 pound exterior screws 2½"

Materials and Supplies

  • paint $15.00

  • 3 pieces 1 × 12 × 8' boards $21.00

  • 4 hinges $16.00

  • 2 door handles $10.00

  • 1 barrel lock $4.80

  • 1 pound screws $6.00

  • 1 bottle exterior wood glue 16 oz $10.00

Estimated Total $82.80

Optional Improvements

Weather Protection

  • weather stripping inside doors to reduce wind-driven rain

  • aluminum drip edge under roof to protect the top seam

  • clear exterior sealer for additional protection over paint

  • solar lights for visibility

Door Stability

  • magnetic door catches to help keep doors closed in wind

Signage Panel

Front or side of the box may include a message such as:

Take What You Need • Leave What You Can