Blake Dalton of Troop 2011 is working toward Eagle Scout rank by creating an after-hours food donation box for HOPE. Photo provided by Susan Thomas.Canyon Lake teen Blake Dalton of Troop 2011 is working toward Eagle Scout rank and must complete a service project that benefits the community before he can go before the Eagle Board of Review.
Blake’s project of choice is an after-hours food donation box for Helping Our People of Elsinore (HOPE), a food pantry that serves the communities of Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Wildomar, and several unincorporated Riverside County communities.
The 17-year-old Temescal High School student-athlete said his hope is that families in the area don’t go hungry or without essential items.
“This project means a lot to me,” said Blake. “Due to the current pandemic, many have lost jobs and HOPE has experienced an influx of people who are in need of help.”
Blake’s donation box will allow HOPE to receive donations outside of normal business hours.
“HOPE is open only three days a week and only for a few hours on those days,” said Blake. “The only way for them to receive food donations and toiletry items is during their normal hours of service.”
The donation box will be placed in front of the facility, making drop offs quick and convenient. “The donation box will also help to keep social distancing by allowing for quick drop off, utilizing an easily accessible box outside of the building,” said Blake.
To raise funds for his project, Blake is holding a garage sale at his home on Saturday, September 19, and Sunday, September 20, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 22636 Pin Tail Dr.
Residents who wish to donate garage sale items (no clothing) or funds toward Blake’s project may drop off their donations on September 18 at 22636 Pin Tail Dr.
“Any additional money made beyond the cost of the donation box will be given to HOPE for additional food to purchase and distribute,” said Blake.
