Quakertown junior inspires food drive

Not your typical 17-year-old, Mason Smith has accomplished quite a bit in his young life. He’s a black belt in karate, earned his Eagle Scout rank with Boy Scout Troop 87, and is a junior councilman with Quakertown Borough. Recently, the Quakertown Community High School junior was thinking about the COVID-19 pandemic and his legacy. “What will I be able to tell my grandchildren about what I did” during these unusual times?” he said in an interview.

Seeking to contribute to the community in a significant way, Smith aspired to help feed families facing financial hardship as unemployment has skyrocketed. His idea is similar to his Eagle Scout Project: a food drive for the Quakertown Food Pantry. His efforts have been joined by several municipalities.

The food drive is scheduled for Saturday, May 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Food may be dropped off at Quakertown Borough Hall, Richland Township Police Department, Milford Township Building, Richlandtown Borough Benner Hall and Haycock Township Community Center.

All donations of nonperishable food are greatly appreciated. At this time the greatest needs include:

• Canned fish and meats: chicken, tuna, spam, ham

• Canned complete meals: chili, beef stew, pasta meals (ravioli, Spaghetti O’s, etc.)

• Vegetables, especially green vegetables

• Canned fruit

• Canned spaghetti sauce (no glass, please)