Scouting America Launches Annual “Scouting for Food” Drive Across the Bay Area This November
Local Scouts Aim to Break Records and Support Families Facing Hunger Throughout Northern California.
Scouting America and the Golden Gate Area Council are preparing to launch the annual Scouting for Food community service campaign this November, rallying thousands of Scouts and volunteers across the Bay Area during the season of giving.
Since its launch in 1988, Scouting for Food has grown into the nation’s largest single-day food collection effort, helping provide millions of meals to families in need across the United States. This year, local Scouts hope to once again break records while supporting food banks and families throughout Northern California.
On the first Saturday of November, Scouts from across the Golden Gate Area Council will distribute more than 600,000 door hangers to homes throughout the Council’s service area, informing residents about the upcoming collection day scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026.
Community members are encouraged to place non-perishable food donations and gently used clothing in a visible location near the street by 9:00 a.m. on collection day. Scouts will then gather and deliver the donations directly to local food banks and community organizations serving families in need throughout the Bay Area.
The need for food assistance continues to rise across California and the Bay Area. According to recent hunger studies, more than 1 in 5 Californians — approximately 8.8 million people — currently struggle with food insecurity, while more than 1 in 6 children live in households facing uncertain access to food.
Last year alone, the Golden Gate Area Council’s Scouting for Food effort collected more than:
- 401,000+ pounds of food
- 65,000+ service hours contributed by Scouts and volunteers
“These efforts represent the true spirit of Scouting,” said council leadership. “Scouting for Food teaches young people the importance of community service while making a direct and meaningful impact on families throughout the Bay Area.”
The Golden Gate Area Council would like to recognize and thank its valued community partners for their continued support of Scouting for Food, including:
- KPIX CBS News Bay Area
- Bank of Canada
- Target
- Trailhead Cyclery
- Towne Ford
- Republic Services
- Alameda County Industries
- Recycle Smart Contra Costa
As well as regional food bank partners including:
- San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
- Alameda Food Bank
- Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano
- Alameda County Community Food Bank
- Helena Food Share
- Community Action Napa Valley
Scouting for Food continues to demonstrate the power of youth leadership, community partnership, and service. Every bag of food collected helps local families, seniors, veterans, and children who rely on food assistance programs throughout the year.
Residents interested in supporting the drive can participate simply by leaving donations outside their homes on collection day or by contacting their local Scouting unit for additional drop-off opportunities.
For more information about Scouting for Food or Scouting programs throughout Northern California, visit the Golden Gate Area Council – Scouting America website.
About the Golden Gate Area Council – Scouting America:
The Golden Gate Area Council serves thousands of youth and families throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California through programs focused on leadership, outdoor adventure, citizenship, and community service. Through Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouts, Exploring, and community initiatives like Scouting for Food, Scouting America continues to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes.