Scouting For Food
Collecting Food to Help Others in Need
Scouting for Food began in St. Louis in 1985 as a council-wide service project. Starting in 1988, it became a national Scouting America program. Today, many councils across the country participate, collectively gathering hundreds of thousands of pounds of shelf-stable goods for food-disadvantaged residents of their local communities.
Scouting for Food takes place on two consecutive weekends. On the first weekend, Scouts distribute bags and/or door hangers to let their neighbors know about the drive. On the second, Scouts revisit those houses to pick up bags full of canned food, cereal, pasta, peanut butter, juice and other nonperishable items.
That’s the genesis of Scouting for Food, the annual food-collection drive run by local councils. It’s another reminder to our local communities that Scouts are here, doing good turns.
Why it Matters:
As Scouts, we know how fortunate we are to have a warm meal every night — whether around the campfire or at the kitchen table. And we know that not everyone is so lucky.
Direct Food Relief
Scouting for Food directly addresses food insecurity by collecting and donating nonperishable items to local food banks, pantries, and shelters.
Empowering Youth
The program provides Scouts with an opportunity to learn about the needs of their community, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others.
Raising Awareness
The program brings attention to the issue of hunger and provides a tangible way for community members to support those struggling to afford food.
Building Community Connections
Scouts work with local businesses, religious organizations, and other community groups to coordinate their efforts, fostering positive relationships and highlighting the positive impact of Scouting.
Scouting for Food is an excellent example of how Scouts can apply their skills and values to make a real difference in their communities.
Chattahoochee Council’s Scouting for Food
The Chattahoochee Council is proud to partner with Feeding the Valley for Scouting for Food, working together to make a meaningful impact on hunger in our communities. Since its founding in 1982, Feeding the Valley has grown from a small 800 sq. ft. warehouse in Columbus, Georgia, into a network of state-of-the-art facilities serving 17 counties in Georgia and one in Alabama. Through this partnership, Scouts help support Feeding the Valley’s mission of providing nutritious food to thousands of families, seniors, and children each week. By collecting and donating food, Scouts put the values of service and community leadership into action while strengthening a long-standing effort that includes mobile pantries, Kids Café programs, and innovative initiatives like Food as Medicine—ensuring help reaches those who need it most.