Cub Scout Pack 270 collected more than 650 nonperishable food and toiletry items that were donated to the FAITH Food Pantry on December 17.

After experiencing two major weather-related events in less than three months (Hurricane Irene in August and Winter Storm Alfred in October), Pack 270 decided to conduct a food drive to help replenish supplies at the food pantry located in Sandy Hook.

Each of the pack’s nine dens participated in the food drive by collecting nonperishable food and toiletry items from friends and family. In addition, every den was assigned a major food manufacturer to which Scouts wrote letters asking for support in the pack’s efforts to fill the shelves of the food pantry. Scouts were encouraged to highlight positive characteristics about Newtown, and to explain that the town was significantly impacted by recent-elated events.

Letters were mailed to the CEOs of nine major food companies, including Campbell Soup Company, General Mills, Kraft, and Pepperidge Farm. Although the Pack has not received responses at this point, it remains hopeful that companies will respond.

John Boccuzzi, Cubmaster of Pack 270, stated, “The boys in Cub Scouts learn about doing your best — Cub Scout Motto — and helping others, part of the Cub Scout Promise. This project accomplished both.”

When the Scouts dropped items off at the FAITH food pantry, they were met by Nancy Taylor, who took time out of her weekend to speak to the boys and share all the great things FAITH Food Pantry does for the community.

Pack 270 is based at Middle Gate School, with 70 active Cub Scouts in nine dens. The pack is sponsored by Newtown Lions Club; information can be found at its website, www.pack270.org.