Warner Robins moms’ group expands blessings box to help families during SNAP pause
The Moms Club of Warner Robins says its community blessings box is seeing increased use as families seek food and household supplies during the ongoing SNAP disruption.
WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – With SNAP benefits still on hold for many families, some are turning to their communities for help.
One Warner Robins moms’ group is doing just that with its blessings box, where families can come and receive food and supplies they need.
The Moms Club started the box in 2019 to help the community in any way possible. Since SNAP benefits have been cut, Administrative Vice President of the Moms Club Misty Reynolds says this box is a blessing to the community and families that need it.
“We’ve seen an uptick on our Facebook page and other social media platforms where people are asking for places they can come,” Reynolds said. “So, we have been sharing the pantries that are open 24/7 as well as the ones that are weekly and biweekly so we can get the word out. But yes, we have seen an uptick in that.”
Reynolds says the box isn’t just for pickup but also drop-off.
“Anything they think somebody can use,” she said. “Other than cash, cigarettes, vapes, inappropriate things, illegal things, we don’t accept those of course. We’ve had diapers, items for children, toys, books, any kind of food, and hygiene and bath products. So, you can bring anything you think is useful.”
Rachel Toomer, President of the Moms Club, says being able to give back to her community during these times is heartwarming.
“Just that we’re helping those that need it the most,” Toomer said .”And it’s anonymous, so you don’t know who you’re helping. You can watch the pictures, you can watch the posting, and see how much it’s emptying and filling, and knowing it’s helping this side of Warner Robins.”
Angie McKay, Treasurer of the Moms Club, says their motto is “moms offering moms support,” but their pantry is here to help anyone in need.
“It doesn’t matter what type of domestic situation they’re in,” McKay said. “It’s for anyone that needs it, who is a mother and who needs it. But this is a community project, and we invite everyone to come partake and participate in donations.”
The box is located in front of Between Friends Coffee Shop and Cafe, located at 1080 State Route 96 Ste. 100, in Warner Robins. It’s open 24 hours a day for both pickup and drop-off.
