The Badge Archive

Important Reminder: Before assembling homeless kits, leaders must contact the intended organization to confirm current needs and guidelines. Many groups have specific requirements for what can be included, how items should be packaged, and whether kits should be assembled off-site or on-site. If kits are being distributed directly by scouts, leaders must follow all safety protocols. Young scouts should never approach unfamiliar individuals without adult supervision. Stranger safety is essential and must be practiced consistently.

Items Needed:
Thick socks, wet wipes, water bottles, protein snacks (e.g., tuna packs, peanut butter crackers), bandages, lip balm, nail clippers, travel-size toiletries, resealable gallon bags, handwritten notes or resource cards

Instruction:
Estimated total time: 60–90 minutes

1. Contact a Local Shelter or Outreach Program (10–15 minutes)
   • Reach out to homeless shelters, street outreach teams, or community service organizations.
   • Ask for current kit needs, approved items, and any packing or delivery instructions.
2. Gather Supplies (15–20 minutes)
   • Collect new, unopened items through donations or troop purchases.
   • Prioritize compact, useful items that are easy to carry and store.
   • Avoid items with strong scents, alcohol content, or sharp edges.
3. Sort and Prep Materials (10–15 minutes)
   • Organize items by category (e.g., hygiene, comfort, food).
   • Remove price tags and check expiration dates.
   • Pre-bag small items like bandages or wipes if needed.
4. Assemble Homeless Kits (15–20 minutes)
   • Pack items into resealable gallon bags or small drawstring pouches.
   • Include only approved items and follow any packing order provided by the organization.
5. Add Personal Touches (5–10 minutes)
   • Include a handwritten note of encouragement or a printed list of local resources.
   • Optional: Add a small card with scout troop info or a seasonal message.
6. Label and Organize Kits (5–10 minutes)
   • Label kits if requested (e.g., “Adult,” “Winter,” “Fragrance-Free”).
   • Group kits by type and prepare for delivery.
7. Deliver or Coordinate Drop-Off (10–15 minutes)
   • Bring kits to the organization or arrange for pickup.
   • If scouts are helping with delivery, ensure adult supervision and follow safety guidelines.
8. Reflect on the Experience (5–10 minutes)
   • Discuss the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness.
   • Encourage scouts to share what they learned or how they felt during the activity.

Possible Locations to Contact for Homeless Kit Use:

• Homeless shelters
• Street outreach teams
• Faith-based ministries
• Mobile hygiene units
• Soup kitchens
• Transitional housing programs
• Community resource centers
• Disaster relief organizations
• Local government outreach departments

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