BLESSING BOX — Mount Pleasant resident Jacob Rinkes constucted a blessing box which he placed outside the United Methodist Church as an Eagle Scout project to help the community. -- Contributed

MOUNT PLEASANT — Just outside the United Methodist Church in Mount Pleasant sits a wooden structure along the sidewalk. Painted neatly and built to last, the object is more than just a box — it is a blessing.

Harrisville resident Jacob Rinkes, 17, built and installed a blessing box for his community.

The box is an Eagle Scout project stocked with food and household essentials for those in need.

The project works on the honor system, in which anyone is welcome to take what is needed, and those who are able to leave a donation inside.

A graduate of Buckeye Local High School, Rinkes spent 25 hours of his time and more than 100 hours with the help of others, to bring the project to life.

He says the idea came to him when he was asked to take on the task of remembering two community members — Robin Rozenek and Stacey Hastings.

“I enjoy woodworking and contributing to the community in a hands-on way,” Rinkes said, smiling as he looked at the finished box.

The project wasn’t without its challenges. The blessing box turned out to be a bit too large for its original location, prompting a last-minute change in plans. However, the Scout of 11 years took the last-minute change in stride, choosing a spot in front of the church where it would be accessible and visible to the community.

From his earliest days in Boy Scout Troop 14, led by Jeff Dickerson, Rinkes stated, “It’s a great organization. It’s helped me a lot socially and with leadership skills.”

Dickerson has watched Rinkes grow from a young Cub Scout into a confident leader.

“Jacob has been involved with Scouts from a very early age,” Dickerson said. “This project completes a full scouting career and has enabled him to earn the highest rank of Eagle Scout. This will help Jacob as he pursues a career in the Air Force by giving him a head start on the skills he will need to accomplish that goal.”

Rinkes, who is the son of David and Erin Rinkes, says he is preparing to leave for the Air Force soon. However, the blessing box he built for his community will remain and serve its purpose in his absence.

For years to come, it will stand as a memorial, a resource for neighbors in need and a reminder of one young man’s dedication to service and his community.