I am building an army of kind people in Charleston, South Carolina. In 2017, with local tragedies compounded by the ongoing divisive political climate all over the country, I was searching for something that could bring everyone together. Something upon which everyone can agree. Eventually, it occurred to me that we can all afford to be kinder to one another. Kinder in our words, thoughts, and deeds – and that anonymous giving is the perfect vessel for slow but impactful change.

I created the Lowcountry Blessing Box Project after reading about the first Little Free Pantry in Arkansas, and the rapid growth and popularity of my Project has inspired others not only to participate by anonymously donating food, but also in many other ways. My Project is now a network of more than 175 anonymous food donation sites for non-perishable foods and toiletries with one guideline: Leave what you can, take what you need.