1st Forres Scouts raise £1211 for headquarters improvements via Christmas Scout post
The Scout Christmas post helped raise more than £1200 for much-needed funds over December.
1st Forres Scout Group secretary Louise Berry confirmed Beavers, Scouts, Explorers and supporting volunteers collected, sorted and delivered a total of 3106 cards during December, raising £1211.32 for their headquarters via an average 39p delivery charge.
She said: “We’re very grateful to the folk of Forres for supporting us - hopefully we’ll continue with the effort for many years to come. Although the numbers are down on previous collections the actual sum raised averages more than the suggested donation of 30p per card.”
The Scouts plan the post well in advance of Christmas to ensure the cards can be dealt with without pressure. This time, after collections were made at seven post boxes around town, there were two two-hour sorts on December 9 and 16 at the Scouts’ Bank Lane hall with the help of parents/carers, leaders and other volunteers. The cards were sorted into areas for delivery and each had a coordinator, who, with the help of volunteers, delivered the cards. Undeliverable cards were returned to the hut where a ‘washup’ was carried out to identify recipients of un-addressed cards or those with incorrect addresses.
Fiona explained: “We matched up un-addressed cards with recipients, as some names were recognised by family members. We even posted on a bowel screening test which made its way into one of our boxes! We play festive tunes during the sorts and there are always cakes and chocolates available. There is a busy but happy atmosphere as everyone works together.”
Donations can still be made via www.donate.1stforresscouts.co.uk.
“The proceeds are used for the upkeep of our Scout hut,” explained Louise. “These include our energy bills, insurance, painting, decorating and DIY supplies, cleaning materials, internet charges and computer supplies. We have many people to thank for assisting with the post, too many to name individually name. However, we are especially grateful to those who turn up year-after-year to help.”
