This week, Scout units across the Chattanooga region collected 2,525 pounds of non-perishable food items in partnership with local food banks and Crown Subaru of Chattanooga. The groceries collected will provide 2,104 meals for those in need throughout our area.
To help alleviate hunger in our community, 'Scouting for Food' is an annual collection of nonperishable food items, coordinated across the 11 counties served by the Cherokee Area Council of Scouting America. The Chattanooga Area Food Bank, the largest recipient of items, will deliver goods to its network of Hunger Relief Partners across the community and in turn, provide food to thousands of individuals and families in need.
“We are deeply grateful for the nourishing meals that Scouting for Food will be able to provide to the families in need in our community,” said Melissa Blevins, president & CEO of the Chattanooga Area Food Bank.
“In serving their community, the local Scouts are helping us provide food - and hope - to those neighbors in our community who are struggling and seeking food assistance.”
Jennifer Franklin, community engagement manager of the Chattanooga Area Food Bank, added, “Not only does this help us provide groceries for our neighbors in need, but also enables us to spread awareness in our community.”
The Scouting for Food campaign involved door-to-door food collection efforts by Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA and Venturers. Scouts distributed informational door hangers throughout their designated neighborhoods and community areas.
"The Scout Slogan is Do a Good Turn Daily," said Council Commissioner, Zachary McCarty. "Our Scouts log thousands of service hours annually. This project was a great way to demonstrate to the community the values of Scouting that we teach to the youth of the program."
Crown Subaru of Chattanooga, a partner with local Scouts for this effort, and issued a statement, “We are thrilled to work with Scouts and our local food banks through this effort. Everyone knows that both Scouting and Subaru help get families into the great outdoors – but now we can spread the word that we are all here to help our community as well.”
Contact Edward Ellis with the Cherokee Area Council at 423-315-0329 or edward.ellis@scouting.org for additional information or to make a belated donation.