MILLSTONE – The members of Cub Scout Pack 116 got into the holiday spirit early this year. Scouts in kindergarten through fifth grade spent November “Scouting for Food” to help feed hungry neighbors in Millstone Township and surrounding communities.
From 5-year-old Lions to the fifth grade Arrow of Lights, the boys dropped off “Scouting for Food” bags donated by ShopRite to neighbors who filled each bag with non-perishable food items. Together the boys collected 1,068 pounds of food and helped load the trucks that delivered it to the Caring Hearts Food Pantry at the United Presbyterian Church Ministry
Center, 213 Millstone Road, according to a press release.
“For the past three years, Millstone’s Caring Hearts Food Pantry has relied heavily on the generosity of these Cub Scouts during the holidays,” said Barbara Truscinski, a United Presbyterian Church member and food pantry liaison. “These donations are a blessing and help to stock our shelves and support the needs in our community for several months.”
“Watching these boys get into the spirit of giving to others is the best part for
me,” Den 5 leader Amy Weltner said. “They are doing this community service project
by themselves and getting to see firsthand the impact it can make in our own
backyard.”
Den parent Christina Baldino agreed, saying, “My boys were so excited to pick up
donations from our family and friends and they were even more excited to raid our
pantry. It warmed my heart that they chose their favorite foods items to give.”
The food pantry is open on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month from 10 a.m.
to noon. There are about 10 families from Millstone and Jackson that come regularly,
however, Truscinski said anyone is welcome with no questions asked.
She explained that some people only come to the food pantry once or twice and get back on their feet, while other people come consistently twice a month.
“These families are extremely appreciative for all the blessings they receive,” Truscinski said. She also said she receives an equal blessing, adding, “It feels good to help and we are all just trying to be God’s hands and feet on Earth.”
The food pantry is always in need of donations and they can be left outside the food pantry doors, according to the press release. Items most needed are non-perishable food items
such as cereal, peanut butter, jelly, canned tuna and canned chicken, as well as paper products and toiletries. Individuals who would like to volunteer to help stock shelves and check food expiration dates may call 732-446-2300.
“Service and community are two cornerstones of our scouting program,” said Pack 116 committee member Bill Schlupp. “Teaching our boys at an early age that they can do their part to help is just one of the many important values we like to instill.”
Pack 116 welcomes new members at any time. All kindergarten through fifth grade boys ages 5 to 11 who are interested in learning about becoming a member are welcome to visit https://millstonetwp116.mypack.us