Scouting for Food is our council’s annual community service project that brings together Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturers, and Explorers to support local food pantries and families in need.
When to Participate
The council’s Scouting for Food Week is March 7–14, 2026. However, units may participate anytime during the month of March. Choose the dates that work best for your families and your community. There is no requirement to collect food on a single day or using one specific method.
Ways Units Can Collect Food
You are welcome to collect food in the way that best fits your unit and your community. Here are a few approaches units have used successfully:
- Door Hanger Drop-Off and Pick-Up: Scouts place door hangers in neighborhoods with instructions. Residents leave donations outside on the pickup date. Scouts return later to collect the items. This is simple, contact-free, and works well in residential areas.
- Storefront Collections: Many packs and troops have had great success setting up outside grocery stores or local businesses with signs such as “Fill the Canoe” or “Stuff the Trailer.” Shoppers often donate on the spot, and it increases awareness of Scouting in the community.
- Donation Drop Boxes: Work with local businesses, schools, faith communities, gyms, or other organizations to place a collection box in a high-traffic area for the week or for the entire month. Units check in periodically to empty the box and thank the partner organization.
- Community or Unit Events: Some ideas other units have tried.
Collect food during a Pack meeting or Court of Honor, partner with your chartered organization, or hold a simple open house or demonstration day where food donations serve as admission. Feel free to combine methods or try something new. Anything that helps your Scouts connect with their community is welcomed and encouraged.
After Your Collection
Please record your Scouting for Food results by April 3, 2026. Once reported, Scouting for Food patches will be distributed to your unit.
Thank you for helping support local food banks and for giving Scouts meaningful opportunities to serve others. If you have questions or need help getting started, please contact your District Executive.
