Pastor gives back to the community with food pantry box - WWBT NBC12 News

Ryan Atchison has had to refill the box 10 times since last week. (Source: Ryan Atchison)

The food box is located at 7700 River Road in Matoaca. (Source: Ryan Atchison has had to refill the box 10 times since last week. (Source: Ryan Atchison)

MATOACA, VA (WWBT) -

One south Chesterfield church is looking to make a difference in families' lives one can of food at a time.

Christian Fellowship Pastor Ryan Atchison got the idea from Facebook to create a "Boaz box" -- similar to the "little libraries" in many communities -- full of food for families in need.

"Boaz box" refers to a wealthy landowner in the Old Testament who would leave parts of his crops to those in need.

Atchison says a friend donated the materials for the box a few weeks ago and put it together in a few hours.

Since the box was put into place at the church last week, Atchison has refilled it 10 times.

"This is a very real need in our community," Atchison said in a Facebook video.

Atchison, who has been Christian Fellowship's co-pastor for 10 years with his wife Anne, said Tuesday that his "little church" of about 100 members is stepping up to fill the box, as well as many members of the community, every day.

"If you have a need, swing by," Atchison said in a Facebook video that's been viewed nearly 9,000 times.

He also urges anyone who wants to "give a blessing" to make a donation as well.

The church is located at 7700 River Road in Matoaca.

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