Boy Scout Troops Help Salvation Army

On Saturday, Nov. 9th, local Boy Scout troops did a good deed for the Salvation Army and its efforts to feed hungry people. Boy Scouts from San Bernardino, Rialto, Colton, Highland, Grand Terrace, and Bloomington helped collect food for the Salvation Army. Major Daniel Henderson, of The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Corps, estimated about 13 troops helped raise food donations for the local Salvation Army, participating in a nationwide event the Boy Scouts of America calls “Scouting for Food.” Each Scouting for Food drive benefits a local charity. For instance, troops within the Arrowhead District serve the San Bernardino County mountain communities, and will take their food to a shelter in Blue Jay. On Thanksgiving Day, the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps hosts a Thanksgiving Dinner that often brings in 300 people. Although much of the food served at that dinner is fresh, some of the non-perishable items the Boy Scouts collect may be included. In December, the San Bernardino Corps assembles holiday food baskets for more than 600 local families. Canned food donations received from the Boy Scouts will be included in those baskets. In addition to the holiday baskets, a delicious Christmas Dinner is served on Christmas Day for those in need. The San Bernardino Corps also needs food every day for those at its Hospitality House homeless shelter. Up to 75 family members can stay in its transitional and emergency family shelters. The Salvation Army also needs food daily for up to 200 people who receive a free dinner served six nights a week. Approximately 40,000 meals are served annually from the Army’s kitchen located at 746 West 5th Street in San Bernardino. The Boy Scouts received food donations at several Stater Bros. stores in Fontana, Rialto and San Bernardino. The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Service Team assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires. The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 800-SAL-ARMY. The local number is 909-888-1336.