What began as one woman’s heartfelt mission to help those in need is now growing into a larger, community- wide effort – with the Okmulgee Times stepping in to help extend its reach.
BK’s Blessing Box, created by Belinda VanBuskirk, has quickly become a source of hope for individuals and families facing food insecurity and hardship. Now, thanks to a new partnership with the Okmulgee Times, even more members of the community will have an opportunity to give and to receive.
A donation drop-off box is now available inside the Okmulgee Times office, located at 320 W. 6th Street, where items are already being collected this week.
“We love helping those in our community,” representatives of the Okmulgee Times said. “Partnering with Belinda and BK’s Blessing Box just made sense. This is exactly the kind of effort that brings people together and makes a real difference.”
VanBuskirk launched BK’s Blessing Box as a personal outreach – something she said was placed on her heart after seeing increasing need across the community.
“This isn’t about recognition,” she said. “It’s about helping people – as many as I can.”
Her mobile pantry, located in front of Kirby’s Cafe in downtown Okmulgee, offers free access to essentials from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. It operates on a simple principle: take what you need, give what you can.
And now, with the Okmulgee Times serving as an additional collection point, the impact of that mission is expanding.
Since placing the box inside the Times office, donations have already begun arriving – a sign that the community is eager to support the cause.
Items collected at the Times office are regularly delivered to restock BK’s Blessing Box, ensuring it remains filled with a variety of essentials for those who rely on it.
“This community always shows up,” VanBuskirk said. “And this just gives more people a way to be part of it.”
Community members are encouraged to drop off new or gently packaged items, including:
• Shelf-stable meals (microwavable or ready-toeat) • Canned goods (soups, vegetables, pasta, etc.)
• Boxed meals (spaghetti dinners, rice dishes)
• Fresh fruit (apples, oranges, bananas)
• Bottled water and drinks
• Baby supplies (diapers, wipes, bottles, pacifiers)
• Feminine hygiene products
• Toiletries (deodorant, soap, shampoo, body spray)
• Non-prescription children’s medicine (infant Tylenol, etc.)
• Small snack items (granola bars, crackers, chips)
• Inspirational materials or Bibles VanBuskirk emphasized that the contents of the box will continue to rotate depending on donations.
“The box will never look the same twice,” she said. “That’s what makes it special – it’s all coming from the community.”
At its core, BK’s Blessing Box remains guided by a simple philosophy.
“If you don’t need it, don’t take it,” VanBuskirk said. “But if you do need it, please take it.”
With the added support of the Okmulgee Times, that message – and the help it represents – is reaching even further.
Residents wishing to donate can stop by the Okmulgee Times office during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday. Every item, no matter how small, helps make a difference.
As the partnership grows, one thing remains clear: when a community comes together with compassion and purpose, lives are changed.
