When most people picture a deputy, they think of flashing sirens, chases, and courtroom duties. But for Galveston County Precinct One Constable, Mac Sanford, serving the community looks very different.
His mission is not about arrests—it’s about kindness. On the streets and driveways of Texas City, he is quietly changing lives with something called “Blessing Boxes.”
What Are Blessing Boxes?
Blessing Boxes are large plastic containers filled with nonperishable foods such as bread, beans, soups, and other simple-to-make items. These boxes are placed in different parts of Texas City so that anyone in need can take food without hesitation or judgment.
Currently, there are three Blessing Boxes in the city, and four more are on the way. Each one is regularly stocked, thanks to Deputy Sanford, his fiancée Kristi, and many kind-hearted volunteers who donate extra groceries or clear out their pantries to help others.
Why They Matter in Galveston County
According to a Feeding America study, more than one in ten people in Galveston County struggle with food insecurity. For many, these Blessing Boxes are more than just food; they represent hope, dignity, and relief during difficult times.
Residents like Angie Dominguez and Connie Onhiser share how much it means to have access to these boxes. Connie, who lives on a fixed income, said it feels like a true blessing because people can get what they need without shame.
Community Support and Impact
The impact of these boxes is clear. Volunteers report that every 30 minutes to an hour, someone stops by to pick up food. Churches and neighbors have joined in, making sure the boxes stay stocked.
Sanford himself goes the extra mile—he and Kristi clip coupons and budget carefully to stretch every rupee—sorry, every dollar—as far as possible. He calculated that $54 can provide 38 meals, showing how far a little generosity can go.
And the giving doesn’t stop at food. Sanford’s pickup truck often looks like a mini store, carrying not just groceries but also shoes, clothes, and other necessities for those who need them.
A Deputy Driven by Gratitude
For Sanford, this work is more than community service—it’s a calling. Seeing the gratitude on people’s faces fuels his passion to keep going. As he puts it, “That is jet fuel for the fire. Graciousness of the people and the gratitude, that’s enough to just keep you going.”
The Blessing Boxes of Texas City prove that small acts of kindness can create a ripple of change in an entire community. What started as one deputy’s idea has grown into a movement that feeds families, restores dignity, and inspires hope.
In a world where many feel forgotten, these boxes remind people that someone cares, and that truly is a blessing.
