#United States #Irving #food insecurity #Scouting America #Scouting for Food

Scouts Rally Communities to Fight Hunger Through Scouting for Food

On November 14, 2026, Scouting America will launch its first-ever National Day of Service, a pivotal initiative aimed at addressing food insecurity in local communities across the country. This day will spotlight the longstanding tradition known as Scouting for Food, an effort where Scouts come together with their neighbors to collect nonperishable food items for local organizations that aid those facing hunger.

According to the Food Research and Action Center, one in seven households in the U.S. confronts food insecurity. The Scouting for Food program addresses this pressing issue by empowering Scouts to canvass neighborhoods, inviting residents to donate food items to support local food banks, pantries, and shelters. This grassroots impact not only lends a helping hand to families in need but also fosters a spirit of community cooperation.

Local councils coordinate these efforts, partnering with businesses, places of worship, and various community organizations to enhance the reach and effectiveness of the Scouting for Food initiative. Beyond food collection, Councils are encouraged to orchestrate other community service projects, such as cleanup drives and beautification efforts in public spaces. Through these activities, Scouts gain invaluable skills in teamwork, leadership, and civic responsibility, all while cultivating empathy and learning the significance of contributing to their communities.

The roots of Scouting for Food trace back to 1985, when it began as a localized service project in St. Louis, and was later adopted nationally in 1988. Over the years, this initiative has provided countless generations of Scouts with a meaningful outlet to serve their communities directly. Today, Scouting for Food has evolved, yet its core mission remains the same: to work in unison with community partners to ensure that families in need receive essential food support.

Roger Krone, the president and CEO of Scouting America, emphasized the importance of service in Scouting, stating, "Service is at the heart of Scouting, and our National Day of Service is an opportunity for Scouts to turn that commitment into action. Through Scouting for Food, young people are stepping up to serve their neighbors, working together and seeing firsthand how their efforts can drive community impact. It's a meaningful way for Scouts to live out the values of leadership, responsibility, and compassion while building character and making a difference for families facing hunger."

The National Day of Service is part of Impact365, a comprehensive initiative by Scouting America designed to engage youth in character development, civic responsibility, and impactful leadership through service. Supported by funding from Lilly Endowment Inc., Impact365 aims to create pathways for Scouts to actively integrate Scouting values into their communities while making measurable contributions through their efforts.

For those interested in learning more about Scouting America or finding a local Scouting Pack, details can be accessed via www.BeAScout.org. Local Councils also provide information regarding Scouting for Food activities in specific areas.

About Scouting America

Scouting America leads the nation's youth with programs focused on character development and values-based leadership training, preparing young individuals to be "Prepared. For Life.®" Welcoming all youths in America, Scouting America aims to facilitate exciting experiences in nature and other areas, promoting growth within a secure environment. With a legacy that’s seen over 130 million participants, the organization actively serves nearly 1 million youths through the dedicated efforts of 477,000 adult volunteers across local councils nationwide. For further information on Scouting America's mission or to sign up your child for Scouting, visit www.BeAScout.org.