Local Boy Scouts host food drive

Nov. 11—CALDWELL COUNTY — The Caldwell County Boy Scouts will be running a Scouting for Food Drive to collect food for local food banks today, Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at all Food Lion locations in Caldwell County and both the Lenoir and Granite Falls Walmarts.

All donated food will be taken to South Caldwell Christian Ministries, Yokefellow, and Lenoir Soup Kitchen.

Some needed items include applesauce, baking supplies, canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, canned soup, cereal, coffee, pasta, spices and seasonings, and more.

Homemade goods or opened produce will not be accepted. Food items must be nonperishable and not expired. The Scouts will accept pet food and pet snacks.

"We do this every year," said Chris Scruggs, district director for the Piedmont Boy Scouts of America. "We decided several years ago that this time of year is best, getting close to the holidays and food banks are running low on food. We have a saying: 'do a good turn.' This is a big concerted effort for youth to go out and do a good turn for the community and those in need."

Scruggs explained that Boy Scouts are asked to follow the Scout Oath and the Scout Law, which lists 12 character traits that Boy Scouts should aspire to have, such as trustworthiness, helpfulness, friendliness, and kindness.

"This food drive helps them learn some of the character traits we ask them to live by," said Scruggs. "It teaches them to give back. We want them to understand and start learning at a young age how to be community-minded."

Stop by any Food Lion location in the county or the Lenoir/Granite Falls Walmarts and drop off food items to support a good cause.

Additionally, monetary donations can be dropped off, and Scouts leaders will use that money to purchase more food.

Contact Chris Scruggs at chris.scruggs@scouting.org to answer any questions.