Scouts seek donations for shelter

Sisters Girl Scout Troop #10732 has placed large decorated boxes in both the elementary and middle schools, asking for donations to the Sisters Cold Weather Shelter. Donations will be accepted from now through Friday, December 15.

The types of items the Scouts are asking for include: twin-size bedding; plastic storage bins; Tracfone minute gift cards for shelter phone; movie DVDs, puzzles, and playing cards; disposable plates, coffee cups, paper towels, and toilet paper; coffee, tea, hot chocolate, creamer and sugar packets; snacks to go such as granola/protein bars, yogurt, fruit, etc.; hand warmers; toiletries; gift cards and certificates to local merchants; Chamber bucks; and warm gloves, hats, scarves, boots, and jackets.

The eight members of the troop, which is comprised of fourth- and fifth-graders, made flyers to inform students at each of the schools about their fundraiser for the Sisters Cold Weather Shelter.

For several weeks, the girls had been discussing what it means to be helpful and of service. At the suggestion of co-leader Jolene Havern, shelter volunteer Linda Wolff attended one of their meetings to describe for the girls what the shelter does, who it serves, what the needs are, and to answer any questions. She described for them a typical night at the shelter. The girls were happy to learn there are people who volunteer to provide housing for shelter guests' pets.

The girls were inspired to sponsor the drive to help the shelter.

According to co-leader Regan Roberts, "Girl Scouts is all about helping others and making the world a better place. When the girls decided to help the shelter, it provided them with a purpose and way to be of service."

This is the third year for the girls as an active troop. Roberts indicated this is a perfect age for the girls to get involved in this project.

"It's wonderful. The girls are right at that age when they are starting to think of others. They saw a problem and decided to do something about it."