Scouting For Food

Scouting for Food in an annual initiative by Scouting America, dedicated to combating hunger and supporting local communities. Each year, Scouts across the nation collect non-perishable food items to aid families in need, exemplifying the Scout slogan: Do a Good Turn Daily.

How to Donate

Community members are encouraged to contribute to Scouting for Food by donating non-perishable food items and household items.

Scouts collect differently in different cities. Please see how you can donate in your city.

March 15, 2025

Door to Door Collections

Please have items set out in a visible location by 9AM.

  • East Dubuque, IL
  • Epworth, IA
  • Farley, IA
  • Monona, IA
  • Peosta, IA
  • Waukon, IA
Drop-Off Sites

Items Collected 9AM to 1PM

  • Bellevue, IA: Bellevue Community Center
  • Cascade, IA: Brothers Market
  • Dubuque, IA: Hy-Vee Food Stores
  • Dyersville, IA: Fareway and Dollar Fresh
  • Epworth, IA: Silker’s Grocery
  • Manchester, IA: Fareway and Dollar Fresh
  • Peosta, IA: Fareway

If you miss the collection, consider donating directly to local food pantries or supporting the initiative through financial contributions, which allow food banks to purchase necessary items.

Your generosity ensures the families in our community have access to essential food supplies. Thank you for supporting Scouting for Food and making a positive impact in the lies of those in need.

Impact on the Local Community

The collected food is distributed to local food banks and pantries, providing essential support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. In 2024, 26,267 pounds of items were collected, the equivalent of 10,688 meals for local families. 

Local Food Banks and Pantries

  • Allamakee County Food Shelf
  • Bellevue Bread Basket
  • Delaware County Food Bank
  • Dubuque Food Pantry
  • East Dubuque Food Pantry
  • Epworth Community Food Pantry
  • River Bend Food Bank, St. Stephen’s Branch

Items Collected

  • Canned  proteins: tuna, chicken, chili, and stews
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Pasta and rice
  • Cereal and oatmeal
  • Canned soups (preferably low-sodium)
  • Cooking essentials: oils and spices
  • Shelf-stable milk

Lessons for Scouts

Participating in Scouting for Food offers Scout invaluable experiences, including:

  • Community Service: Understanding the importance of helping those in need within their communities.
  • Teamwork: Collaborating with fellow Scouts to organize and execute the food drive.
  • Responsibility: Learning to plan, distribute informational materials, and collect donations efficiently.
  • Empathy: Gaining insight into the challenges faced by individuals experiencing food insecurity.

These experiences foster personal growth and instill a lifelong commitment to service.