SOMERVILLE, NJ - The Cub Scouts from Pack 80 in Somerville, NJ have been tirelessly and enthusiastically selling custom-designed lawn signs, which they have called “Signs of Hope”, to raise money for local food banks. In less than a week, the Scouts have sold and delivered 100 signs and raised over $1,227.39 for the benefit of the Samaritan Homeless Interim Program ( S.H.I.P.), headquartered in Somerville.
The signs were designed to show the Scouts’ support and gratitude to those on the frontline of the COVID-19 battle; the medical workers, first responders, and ALL other essential workers who have tirelessly put their own health at risk for the community. For the protection of both Scouts and buyers, all sales and delivery have been non-contact. Scouts and their families have been installing these signs across Somerset county.
The idea for the fundraiser came from Pack 80’s Philanthropy Chairman, Jeff Bouquio. Jeff and his family wanted to find a way to help the people in his community who have been directly affected by COVID-19. The sign’s graphics were designed by Jeff’s daughter, 11-year-old Zoey Bouquio, a 6th grader from Immaculate Conception School.
When asked about the success of the fundraiser, Jeff stated “This is a tremendous opportunity for our youth to understand the importance of helping others. With all that is going on in the world today, the community has shown us all that there is hope for a positive future.” When Jeff was a Scout, he was taught to always help others if you can and are able to help. This tradition carries on with all the scouts from Somerville, NJ.
Owing to the initial success of their fundraising, Pack 80 hopes additional people in the community will support the Cub Scouts’ efforts by donating or purchasing signs.
Pack 80 has teamed up with the Boy Scouts from Somerville to continue on and sell more signs in the hope to raise money for those in need.
Additional information on how to purchase a sign can be found on Pack 80’s website: www.somervillecubscouts.com
Pack 80 Treasure Matthew LaRoche and Assistant Cubmaster Andrew Tiplady present the first check from “Signs of Hope” profits totaling $1,227.37 to SHIP’s CEO Tom O’Leary