The Little Red Mailbox: Hope On The OBX

The Little Red Mailbox has made a big impact on the Outer Banks. Created by two locals and with the help of the town of Kill Devil Hills, this simple little mailbox has been able to help out those who need a little boost of encouragement and positivity…all across the U.S.

The Beginning of the Mailbox

Started by Eddie and Sue Goodrich, The Little Red Mailbox was created as a safe space and a place to get away. A place to be able to share your thoughts, feelings, secrets, and dreams. Sue Goodrich came up with the idea to spread hope after her mother passed away. Sue recalls her mother telling her, “…if you ever feel sad, help someone else out.” That’s exactly what Sue did.

The first Little Red Mailbox made its debut at the Glenmere public beach access in Kill Devil Hills. Inside the mailbox is a notebook that contains letters, notes, thoughts, and quotes from strangers who want to help others or just need a safe, anonymous place to vent. The Glenmere beach access is also known now as the Hope Access.

Mailboxes Everywhere

The Little Red Mailbox has made its way across the country. There are over 12 Little Red Mailboxes and counting spreading hope and positivity all over the east coast in towns such as: Johnstown, PA, Mechanicsville, VA, Virginia Beach, VA, Ocean Isle Beach, NC, and more! The newest mailbox to spring up is right here on the OBX in Kitty Hawk.

Last April, 2018, a 4-year old boy from New Hampshire was vacationing with his family in Kitty Hawk; his name was Wesley Belisle. He was walking on the beach with his mother when he was swept into the ocean by a wave. His body was located in Carova along the beach the following morning. This tragedy touched many on the Outer Banks; visitors and locals alike. The community began to leave flowers, shells, and even toys at the access where Wesley was taken away by the sea and a month later, a Little Red Mailbox had appeared. Inside the mailbox lies a note book with simple instructions inside that read “leave a note of hope”. Wesley’s Little Red Mailbox is embellished with orange angel wings.

This project of positivity is a prime example of the hospitality and sense of community that is found on the Outer Banks. Whether you’re a local or visitor, take some time to find a Little Red Mailbox, sit and read, and leave a note of hope.

A full list of locations can be found on The Little Red Mailbox’s website.