11 Ideas for Scouts to give back this Holiday Season

“Operation Christmas Child (Samaritan’s Purse) instructions are avail online (stuff any shoebox), but also supported by Chick-fil-A. They hand out empty shoeboxes, you fill with toiletries, school supplies, and toys, return them to the store, they give you coupon for free chicken sandwich, and ship them for you, with a message of hope and love. So easy, fun, meaningful, and global, but it also allows us the time and funds to support our local charities.” Teresa

” This year we are collecting toys to donate at a local toy drive for families in need. My girls will be staying to sort toys too. Last year we decorated placemats and made center pieces for a local retirement center. The girls went in to set the tables for the residents” Susan

 “If you meet after school where there is holiday food or toy collections, ask the guidance counselor where you can help. My troop did not have much money, but would vote on where to help with $10, which usually went to our guidance counselor to purchase a turkey. I liked that the girls knew it was for someone in their school, but did not know who…..” Kristen  

“Our girls adopted a needy family from their school and put together a 70’s Christmas party for them. Each girl broughy a present for a member of the family and fed them a Christmas dinner, had some Christmas craft tables, and dancing available. Everyone had something to do, and the family was very grateful for all the presents, food, and new friends! The family was selected by the school’s counselor. Our family of 4 had 2 children, mom working for very little, and dad on the list for a kidney transplant. Helped remind the girls that you never know what a family mighr be going through!” Angela

“We go to our local senior residence and wrap their doors with christmas paper and decor. We then sing Christmas carols, we are making blessing bags to pass out to homeless people as the weather is getting cold. We always write letters to santa and drop them off to macys they donate $1 to make a wish foundation for each letter to santa. We also do a food drive and make christmas cards for the military. All are big hits for eveyone involved ” Katy

“Ginger bread houses – deliver to nursing homes or Seniors who live alone. the kids love to make them” Tracy

“Salvation Army’s Angel Tree – my girls loved picking who to shop for & the shopping” Kathye

”  Our troop has always made “Happy Socks” catnip toys for the kitties in our local SPCA animal shelter. Take an old sock, put a bit of catnip in the toe, add a small poof of Polyfil stuffing, and tie a knot (or use strong twine) in the sock. The shelter cats are cooped up in cages all the time and go crazy when we deliver the Happy Socks! The girls also get instant gratification of seeing their service project in action.” Andrea

“I started a “Swaps for Seniors” project within our service unit. Troops make swaps for elder homebound seniors to be included in their meal deliveries. They love it!.” Geraldine

“We are hosting a Santas workshop! For all ages! They will be making cookies, door wreaths and an ornament for the nursing home. They will also be making care packages for the cancer center in town. It’s an overnight event and they will have a special visitor for breakfast!” Terrisa

” We have done caroling (a big hit with the girls). We are collecting canned goods, winter items, and toiletries to take to the local shelter. There’s also making simple tutus and super hero capes for children at the local shelter. Get a couple of angels from the Angel Tree. Make doggie and kitty toys and treats and take them to the shelter. Collect blankets and towels for the animal shelter or blankets and winter items for the homeless shelter.” Tamika