Our Opinion: Virtues of Scouting for Food

The Boy Scout oath asks its members to pledge, among other actions, "to help other people at all times."

During last weekend's snowy Saturday, Boy Scouts dispersed throughout the community and placed between 1,500 to 2,000 door hangers announcing this year's Scouting for Food drive.

They will fan out again, beginning at 10 a.m. this Saturday, to collect the bags of food donors leave on their porches.

The food, once again, will be channeled to the Samaritan Center, which now serves about 1,400 area families.

The timing is excellent.

Ben DeFeo, operations manager for the Samaritan Center, called the Boy Scouts' effort "a really critical food drive for us."

He pointed out the center typically experiences a lull in donations after the holidays. Food collected during the drive helps restock the pantry, allowing the center to use available funds to help people financially.

Donors are asked to contribute non-perishable items and avoid any glass containers. Suggested items include peanut butter, dry cereal and oatmeal, canned vegetables and fruits, dry goods, pasta, canned meats, soups or chili.

Contributors also are asked to bag the items and leave them on the front porch before 10 a.m. Saturday, when collections will begin. If possible, staple the door hangar to the bag to notify Scouts that the items are intended for the drive.

The Boy Scout law asks its members to embrace, among other virtues, being "helpful, courteous and kind."

Scouting for Food exemplifies all those character traits, and more.

We commend the Boy Scouts for their example.