On Saturday, December 13, 2008 BSA-Pack 162/47, sponsored by St. Francis Xavier School and Our Lady of Solace Parish, met in front of Big Deal Supermarket on Morris Park Avenue in the Bronx at 10:00 A.M. As the mercury climbed to 27°, the pack began setting up tables, flags, and food bins in preparation for the collection of non-perishable food for the growing number of needy families in our community. The drive, sponsored by the 49^th Precinct and Community Board 11, has been organized for the 3rd consecutive year by Pack 162/47 Leader Angela Rico. We received our 1^st donation of food at 10:15 A.M., marking the drive as officially underway. With the wind-chill factor setting temperature effects at 18°, the Tigers, Bears, Wolves of the Pack, along with Scout Troopers David Giancaspro, Zachary & Gregory Rico were not about to back down in aide of those in our community, who find themselves down on their luck during these financially turbulent times.

 The scouts distributed flyers to shoppers as they entered Big Deal Supermarket, and as they have for the 3^rd consecutive year, our community minded citizens responded in a big way. Community generosity resulted in the collection of over 1,000 pounds of non-perishable foods for distribution to the needy. In addition, cash donations totaled $265.00, which was spent wisely in Big Deal Supermarket on food that was added to the collection. By 2:30 P.M. as the collection process was winding down, the temperature had thankfully risen to just over 32°. The boxes, bags, and bins of food were then loaded into volunteers’ vehicles and hand delivered to the 49^th Precinct. From there, 49^th Precinct Community Affairs personnel, along with 49^th Precinct Community Board President Joe Thompson will deliver the stipends to local food pantries and families of need in time for the Christmas Holidays. We sincerely thank Joe Thompson for his help. Joe stayed from beginning to end, helping with the collection. We also thank Councilman James Vacca, who also assisted in the process.

As the number of families in financial duress grows, and the need for action from those in position to help increases, Pack 162/47’s families and members answered the call, as did the generous citizens of our Morris Park Community, of which we are all proud to be members. Special Thanks to Pack Officials Angela Rico, Sean Cahill, and Artie Behrendt, who went above and beyond the call of duty to guarantee a successful 2008 Holiday Season Food Drive.

Sincerely & Thankfully,

Members & Families of BSA Pack 162/47 - Bronx, NY