LIKE THE sky overhead, most of Fayetteville is still asleep when Rob Barnett arrives at Elk River Trading Company on a cold December Saturday morning. Today isn’t about sales — it’s about giving back.
Barnett’s commitment to service began in 2020 with a simple “blessing box” inspired by Lisa Little of Fieldstone Jewelry & Pawn in Conyers, Georgia.
“It didn’t take long for the community to become reliant on that box,” he said, noting how locals took ownership of keeping it stocked. Later, he added the community coat rack, offering warmth to those who needed it.
His desire to serve didn’t stop there. In September 2023, the Day of Giving was born from a conversation with Tracie Cowan of “Bryan & Tracie Mornings” on WYTM Radio.
“We wanted to create a holiday event that would help our community and the organizations that support those in need,” Barnett explained.
The idea took shape: Bryan and Tracie would broadcast all morning from a fully extended Fayetteville Public Utilities bucket truck, collecting canned food, pet food, and coats for the community coat rack.
Even with careful planning, doubt always creeps in during those early hours.
“Rising before 3 a.m. to stand outside in the cold for eight hours is daunting. And I wonder — maybe last year was a fluke, and no one will show up this year.”
Then a car arrives. A small bag of canned vegetables is dropped off, and another follows. Soon, donations trickle in steadily.
“Slowly, the front porch of my store begins to fill with stacks of canned food,” Barnett said.
Late into the first year’s event, a man approached WYTM’s owner, John Malone, asking if donations were still being accepted. Handing over a small bag with four cans, he apologized, explaining it was all he could spare. Then he shared his story — once down to his last can of food, unsure when he’d afford more, he now wanted to give what little he could.
“He knew firsthand how much of a difference just a few extra cans in the pantry can make,” Barnett recalled.
That spirit of giving has only grown. In 2024, the Day of Giving raised nearly $9,000 for Hands of Mercy and $1,500 for the humane society and collected almost 50 coats. Barnett’s store serves as a drop-off point, and people continue to contribute throughout the year.
The most rewarding moment came when Barnett presented the proceeds to the Hands of Mercy director, Tina Hudson.
“As Tina spoke about the impact of our donations, she became emotional … In that moment, every hour, dollar, and effort I had put into preparing for my second Day of Giving felt completely justified.”
Barnett doesn’t take the generosity of the community for granted.
“The food and funds we’ve raised were swiftly put to use, providing essential support and nourishment to both people and pets throughout Lincoln County,” he said.
For Barnett, it all started with a simple box. Now, it’s a movement — one that keeps growing, fueled by the kindness of those willing to give, no matter how much or how little they have. GN
You can follow Elk River Trading Company on Facebook or visit the store at 1703 Huntsville Hwy., Fayetteville, (931) 297-2170, or elkrivertrading.com.
