Scouting for Food drive begins on Nov. 14

According to the 2009 Report on Poverty, Income, and Health Insurance in Illinois, more than 1.5 million Illinois residents, live below the poverty level of $21,200 for a family of four. 

In Southern Illinois, local food pantries feel the economic strain as they receive more calls and visitors each month.

On Saturday, Nov. 14 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers and Explorers will hit the streets to deliver tens of thousands of bags to residences across the area. 

Union County Scouts will be joining the food drive.

Cub Scout Pack 44 and Boy Scout Troop 44, both in Anna, will be collecting food in the Anna-Jonesboro area.

One week later, on Saturday, Nov. 21, Scouts will retrieve the bags filled with nonperishable goods for distribution to local pantries.

“We seem to have touched upon a formula that makes it easy for people to give, and the residents of our communities have always been generous,” said John Primrose, Scout executive/CEO of the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.

“Our Scouts are proud to be able to help our local citizens.”

“This time of year, pantries often see their lowest food reserves, yet an increase in need,” said Mark Hays, local district executive. 

“One of many Scout service projects, Scouting for Food brings youth an awareness of their communities’ needs, but also demonstrates the astounding support our neighbors provide one another.

"Some pantries tell us this single food drive keeps their shelves stocked for over four months.  To think that one-third of the food helping local families comes through the hands of Scouts is a remarkable testament to Scouting’s importance.”

For more information, visit the website of the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America at <a href="http://www.stlbsa.org">www.stlbsa.org</a>.

Information is available locally by contacting Pack 44 committee chairperson Andrew Webb at 833-9821.