Nacogdoches, Texas – In a heartfelt effort to support the men and women who have served our nation, Scout Troop 107 has spent the past several weeks gathering non‑perishable food items for veterans throughout Nacogdoches County. The troop partnered with the newly formed nonprofit Hunger Free Nac Sin Hambre, which focuses on alleviating food insecurity in the area.
Why the drive matters
Feeding America data shows that one in nine working‑age veterans in the United States faces food insecurity. Troop leader Den leader Susan Stoner explained that the drive gives young Scouts a concrete way to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans. “They need to give back. This is a way of saying thank you and showing some respect,” Stoner said. “It’s history. They need to know what our country has done in the past and why we honor our veterans.”
Scouts on the ground
Scouts Augustus Snellings, Benjamin Norris, Curtis Killen and others canvassed neighborhoods, handing out flyers and blue collection bags during Halloween trick‑or‑treating. Residents were asked to leave filled bags on their porches for pickup on Saturday morning before the Veterans Day parade. The Scouts also plan to carry the American flag during the parade, underscoring the connection between service and community.
Veterans’ voices
Scout Nathan Flores shared a prayerful sentiment for veterans, noting that many face homelessness, lack of money, and hunger. “It’s to celebrate veterans and pray about veterans who sacrifice their lives for us,” he said. The food drive aims to provide tangible assistance to those who need it most.
How to help
Anyone wishing to contribute can bring non‑perishable food items to the Hunger Free Nac table at First United Methodist Church in Nacogdoches. All donations must be dropped off by 10 a.m. on Saturday, the day of the parade. The church’s location provides a central, accessible point for community members to support the cause.
Community impact
The initiative reflects a broader tradition of volunteerism in East Texas, where churches, civic groups and youth organizations often collaborate to address local needs. By involving young Scouts, the drive not only supplies food but also instills a sense of duty and gratitude in the next generation.
As the parade approaches, the Scouts hope their efforts will inspire additional contributions and remind residents of the enduring responsibility to care for those who have defended our freedoms.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.