Scouting for Food is one of Idaho's largest annual community food drives, bringing together Scouts, families, businesses, and community volunteers to help address hunger across Southwest Idaho.

In partnership with The Idaho Foodbank and local food pantries, Scouts and volunteers throughout the Treasure Valley and surrounding communities will help collect nonperishable food and essential household items for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

How it works:
- November 7: Door Hanger Distribution - Scouts and volunteers will distribute informational door hangers throughout participating neighborhoods in Southwest Idaho.
- November 14: Food Collection - Scouts will return to participating neighborhoods to collect donations left outside residents' homes. Community members can also contribute at designated collection and drop-off locations.

Community participation: Residents who do not receive a door hanger can still participate by donating at an approved community collection site or organizing a food drive through their workplace, school, business, faith community, or civic organization.

Most-needed donations: Shelf-stable food items such as canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, canned meats, beans, pasta, rice, cereal, soups, and other pantry staples are encouraged.

The 2026 Mountain West Council campaign has an overall goal of collecting 250,000 pounds of food and essential items. Donations collected throughout Southwest Idaho will help support The Idaho Foodbank and local food pantries, providing nourishment and resources to neighbors facing food insecurity.

Scouting for Food is about more than collecting food. It's an opportunity for young people to develop leadership and service skills while bringing communities together to care for their neighbors.

Together, we're building stronger communities and working toward a hunger-free Idaho!

mountainwestcouncil.org