Many of us enjoy plenty of food- -especially during the holidays. But, the latest statistics by worldhunger.org show that approximately 17 million United States households experienced uncertainty regarding having food for their families in 2008. That’s approximately one in seven homes, the highest number ever recorded in this country. With these staggering statistics in mind, local Boy Scouts are gearing up for their annual Scouting For Food Program.
On Saturday, Feb. 5, boys will canvas designated neighborhoods distributing empty grocery bags in hopes that they will return on the following Saturday to find them filled with contributions. Although local Scouts’ efforts resulted in a donation of over 7,000 pounds of food last year to the Real Life Center, the community’s needs were still overwhelming.
This year, the Scouts anticipate residents will again give generously when they visit their homes. Unfortunately, covering every neighborhood and actually finding people home on a Saturday morning makes the important task a little more difficult.
With this in mind, various troops are stepping up their efforts so that neighborhoods which aren’t visited can contribute. J93.3 radio station in Tyrone has agreed to run announcements in hopes of increasing awareness about the food drive.
Troop 172, under the direction of Scoutmaster David Flohr, will also be accepting donations at the food pantries from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Feb. 5. Scouts from his troop will be stationed that day at The Real Life Center at 382 Senoia Road in Tyrone. Boys will also man the Fayette Samaritans’ food pantry behind Fayetteville Christian Church on 126 Hickory Road during those same hours.
Top needs include soup, canned fruit and canned meat. Although canned goods are ideal, requests also include items such as oatmeal, dried beans, shampoo and toilet paper.
The Boy Scouts are optimistic that their increased efforts and the generous donations by the community will once again make Scouting For Food a success.
