Frequently Asked Questions About Scouting for Food
Q: What is Scouting for Food?
A. Scouting for Food in the Greater St. Louis Area Council is the largest single-day food drive in the Boy Scouts of America. The Good Turn was created in our council and performed during two Saturdays each November.
Q: Why do the Boy Scouts organize Scouting For Food?
A. As an organization, the Boy Scouts are dedicated to giving back to their communities. Scouting for Food teaches youths the value of helping others. “Do a good turn daily,” is the Scout slogan and, “to help other people at all times,” is one of the planks of the Scout Oath.
Q: How does the food get from my pantry to the homes of the needy?
A. After the Scouts retrieve the bags filled with canned goods from area residences, the items are delivered to local schools, where items are boxed and taken directly to our local Glen Ed food pantry. The canned good donations are available on pantry shelves to feed the needy within days.
Q: Who participates in Scouting for Food?
A. More than 30,000 Scouts, their parents, and Scout leaders across the St. Louis Metropolitan area take part in Scouting for Food by distributing bags and collecting the canned goods.
Q: How many people does this feed?
A. This single-day food drive raises approximately 25 percent of the yearly food supply area for food pantries and feeds the community for three months.
Q: What should I give as a donation? What does a perfect bag look like?
A. Eating a variety of healthful food in sensible amounts is important for all, and this can be particularly challenging for families in need. While all donations are appreciated, be sure to practice thoughtful giving this season. Registered dietitian Roberta L. Duyff suggests donating a variety of nutritious items, the perfect bag contains:
- 2 cans of hearty soup, stew or chili: Supplies many nutrients.
- 2 cans of tuna, chicken, turkey, salmon or luncheon meat (e.g., Spam): Contains protein and iron. Canned salmon is a source of calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.
- 1 can of fruit: Supplies vitamins A and C, folate, potassium, fiber and other healthy substances.
- 1 can of 100 percent pure fruit or vegetable juice: Contains vitamin C and often beta carotene.
- 1 can of vegetables: Supplies beta carotene, vitamin C, folate, complex carbohydrates, fiber and potassium.
- 1 can of tomato or pasta sauce: Contains vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, a healthy substance that is more available to your body in canned and cooked tomatoes than in fresh.
- 1 canned meal: Offers a variety of ingredients and nutrients.
- 1 can of beans, refried beans or lentils: Contains plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates and fiber.
- 1 can of evaporated milk: Makes an excellent source of calcium and protein.