For those who have a Scouting uniform tucked away in the back of a closet – a shirt from a child’s early Scouting days or even one from years ago – now is the perfect time to pass it along. The Scout shop at Scouting America, Verdugo Hills Council is accepting gently used, clean Scout uniforms, camping and backpacking gear. 

“We know there are a lot of families in our community who want to be part of Scouting but worry about the cost,” said Laura Clay, Scout executive. “As being thrifty is part of our ethos, donated uniforms, backpacks and other equipment helps youth get in the outdoors without as much of a financial barrier.” 

And while dropping off a donation, visitors are invited to reminisce about Scouting at the small museum and alumni corner, which feature items going back to the early days of Scouting locally and highlights on notable Scouts respectively. The shop also includes an array of basic camping and backpacking items like freeze dried meals, propane canisters, lanterns and pocketknives that can be utilized by anyone, Scout or not. 

Donations are accepted during open hours (1-6 p.m., from Tuesday through Friday and 12-4 p.m. on Saturday) at the Scout facility at 421 N. Glendale Ave. Items must be gently used and clean, ready to be utilized by a Scout. 

The Verdugo Hills Council is a 100-plus-year-old institution in the area, serving families across the Glendale, Burbank, Sun Valley, Sunland, Tujunga, La Crescenta, Montrose, Eagle Rock and Highland Park communities of Los Angeles County. The Council’s mission is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. The Council offers a variety of programs for boys and girls ages 5-20, such as Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Exploring, as well as camping, training and service opportunities. For more information, visit www.vhscouting.org.