BIFMC Installs “Blessing Box” to Aid Food Insecurity March 6, 2019

Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic is proud to become a Charleston Blessing Box location!

Located at 3226 Maybank Highway, Building #C (directly to the right of the free medical clinic in a light green cabinet), the community is encouraged to leave non-expired, non-perishable food items or supplies within the storage cabinet for others who are low on food items and goods to take home. Donated items can consist of [non-expired] nonperishables, toiletries, school supplies, pet food, diapers, and baby formula. Canned protein goods such as beans are particularly important staples for those who encounter food insecurity. [Healthy Non-Perishable Food Suggestions]

The Lowcountry Blessing Box initiative began by James Islands resident, Katie Dahlheim, who wanted to help those in need within the community. According to the project’s website, “Studies show adults with food insecurity will skip meals or reduce their portions to provide for children in their homes as they wait for pay day. Many food insecure families do not qualify for the assistance of food banks, or are hesitant to turn to food banks for assistance due to the stigma. One “bad month” can be enough to plunge a household into food insecurity. Lay-offs at work, unexpected car maintenance, unforeseen medical bills, or an accident on the job can suddenly force a family to choose between buying food and paying bills.”

We encourage our volunteers and supporters to stop by and drop off items as they can – and for those in the community who could use a little help to stock their pantry to feel free to take what is needed. Often, it is toward the end of the month when food items begin to run low for many lowcountry families. A great way to help ensure our neighbors are well stocked? Put an on-going reminder on your calendar to make a drop off during the last week of each month!

Low income adults who live or work on Johns, James and Wadmalaw Islands and lack health insurance should also stop by the clinic to see if they are eligible for free health care. Learn more about eligibility here.

You can learn more about the Blessing Box program from a 2018 feature via Live5 News.

Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic is a free clinic in Charleston, SC, that provides free medical care to eligible patients, just like any family practitioner or internist. The Free Clinic serves uninsured adults living at or below 200 % of the Federal poverty level who live or work on Johns, Wadmalaw or James Islands. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.