By Nance Ebert, Contributing Writer
Marlborough – The Cubmaster for Troop 41 Howard Priest could not be prouder of his Scouts. Last month the troop participated in their annual toy drive, cookie swap and Bingo event at the Raymond C. Richer Elementary School to help benefit families in need.
“This is going to be our fifth year collecting items for donation at the Marlborough Veterans Northeast Outreach Center at the Walker building. All of the donated toys and other items will benefit the families of local veterans,” Priest said.
November and December usually are a hectic time of year and for the Scouts this is no exception. At this annual meeting, participants and their families enjoyed cookies from the swap. The Scouts collected spare change for Bingo that is then donated.
“The pack matches whatever amount of money is collected and turn that change into gift cards for those families that could use a bit of extra help. The $200 to $300 in gift cards that we collect each year really does help to make a difference in many families’ lives, especially at this time of year,” Priest explained. “The toys and other items are also collected and I will bring them to the Veterans Outreach Center,”
The focus is also on some of the older kids, as they are typically the group that gets the least amount of attention. People usually ask what they can bring for a toy but Priest also suggests to those that are donating to think of some items that older teens can use, such as books, clothing, bikes, and make-up kits for a teenage girls.
“Our event has always been called a toy drive, but any item that you think a child over the age of 7 would like is greatly appreciated,” Priest said. “I try to turn the focus of my pack to this age group because a lot of times, the older kids don’t get much. When I spoke to the Veterans Outreach Program, they requested items for these children as well. There is usually a wide assortment of things for the younger children to choose from. The younger ones always get overwhelmed by what they get, while the older ones really appreciate it.”
Everyone from the pack – about 20 to 30 boys and their families – helps out with this event.
“The scouts don’t get much outside help and I wanted to make sure that these boys get recognized for what they do for the Richer School and the community,” said Priest. “This event has a lot of heart. We want to do as much as we can for the community.”
(Photos/submitted)
