Scouting For Food

How to set up and run Scouting For Food.

Council Web Page: https://www.utahscouts.org/sff

Setup:

1. Setup can take 1/2 hour to 1 hour.  If you have two adults, it can help be closer to the 1/2 hour time.

2. Check in with the store manager; they typically don't know you're coming that day, and sometimes not at all.

   1. I usually start at the help desk, but sometimes I have to ask around.

   2. Ask if they have any special instructions they would like you to follow. 

   3. Inform them that at the end, the National Guard may need to borrow a floor jack to load the pallet into their truck.

   4. Do they want to get any pictures before the troop leaves? Sometimes they do.

3. Add posters to the Gaylord.

4. Display additional posters outside. Be prepared for wind and weather.

5. I like to have a table and camp chairs. Don't block walkways that can hinder shoppers.

6. I have gotten donuts before, but this isn't necessary. There is often someone who loves scouting who will get them donuts or cookies, and then there is too much.

Adult:

1. Keep a list of all the Scouts and Adults who participate so that patches can be ordered for everyone.

2. Collect monetary donations; do not buy food with donations. The food bank can do more with a $ than we can in the store.

3. Wear a uniform if you have one.

4. Encourage scouts who are shy about talking to people or are losing steam.

5. Take pictures and post to Band.

Scouts:

1. Please come when you're available. We should be actively talking to people from 9:00 to 2:00 or until the National Guard comes. They have come as early as 1:00 and as late as 4:00. You do not have to stay after 2:00.

2. Wear a uniform.

3. Approach people as they enter the store. 

   1. Be courteous.

   2. Give them a flyer and ask them if they would like to help with Scouting For Food.

   3. The flyer shows some of the things the food bank needs. They particularly need canned proteins such as meat and chilli.

   4. Do NOT ask for monetary donations.

4. Help people put food in the Gaylord if needed.

   1. We have been asked not to stage food in grocery carts. However, this may be your only choice if the Gaylord is full.

   2. In the past, we have set aside boxes and put canned goods on the bottom. Don't bother with sorting.

5. If the Gaylord has been put on the east side of the entrance, be aware that the doorway must remain accessible. They don't use this door a lot, but they will throughout the day.

6. If you see someone who needs assistance, do a good turn.