KDSN RADIO News
Onawa Woman's 'Joy Boxes' Spread Comfort and Hope Nationwide
Since her retirement in 2015, Pamela McNutt of Onawa, Iowa, has been on a heartwarming mission to bring joy and comfort to people going through tough times, one small box at a time. These "joy boxes" are a source of light for those who need it most, especially during challenging moments like illness, loss, or difficult diagnoses.
The idea for the joy boxes came to McNutt after a personal experience. While recovering from a hospital stay, she received a box from a church in Denison, Iowa. "I ended up in the hospital, and a few days after I returned home, I received a box like this in the mail," McNutt recalls. The thoughtful gift, filled with uplifting messages and small treasures, inspired her to create her own version to share with others in need.
Each joy box is filled with seven wrapped gifts, each accompanied by a Bible verse meant to provide comfort and encouragement. "Each gift has a Bible verse on it, and it’s all about finding comfort and strength," McNutt explains. "I get so much out of it myself—it gives me a sense of purpose, knowing I'm making a difference."
McNutt's mission has grown far beyond Onawa. To date, she has crafted and distributed over 2,000 joy boxes, spreading joy across the country—from California to Florida, Minnesota to Texas, and beyond. Her recent milestone of 2,000 boxes was a significant achievement, and she's already passed the 2,050 mark.
The boxes come in various sizes and are tailored to both men and women. McNutt has a team of volunteers, whom she affectionately calls her "angel friends," who help collect items, assemble the boxes, and deliver them to recipients. "I have many angels in my life," she says. "Friends who help pick up supplies, carry boxes, and ensure they reach the right people."
Each joy box is beautifully adorned with a ribbon and includes a heartfelt note, which McNutt reads aloud:
"This joy box is made especially for you. Choose and open one package every day. We pray that the messages will remind you of God's strength and comfort for His children. These small gifts are from the hearts and hands of those who care. This joy box comes with our love and prayers."
The cost to create each box is about $12 to $15, and McNutt covers the expenses herself. However, she is grateful for any donations, whether in the form of small items or monetary contributions, to help support the mission. Despite the costs, McNutt says she has never felt the financial strain. "God provides," she says with gratitude.
For those interested in supporting this mission of kindness, Pamela McNutt can be reached at 712-790-1214. Donations of items or financial support are always appreciated to help continue spreading the joy of these heartfelt boxes.
