Members of Alfred Street Baptist Church Scout Troop 133 gathered Feb. 24 to assemble 1,000 cold weather kits for distribution to area homeless shelters.

“We are making 1,000 cold weather survival kits for the homeless and the needy that will be distributed at shelters,” said 16-year-old Eagle Scout Evan Kinsel. “This is a service project for myself but I also really want to do for others. That’s always been a philosophy for my family.” 

Each cold weather survival kit contained essential items such as an emergency thermal blanket, thermal socks, a winter hat, gloves, a scarf, 10-hour hand warmers, disposable washcloths, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes. Feminine hygiene supplies for women were also collected.

Led by Scoutmaster Bryan Nails and ASBC Deacon and Homeless Outreach minister Vernon Hammett, the group also assembled 250 lunch kits for distribution to those in need.

“The Scouts were able to collect so many additional donations,” said Trinette Chandler, Kinsel’s mother. “In addition to the 1,000 cold weather survival kits that were distributed, there are enough that the church can continue using them next month. This really highlights the Eagle Scouts and the impact of their service to the community.”

Alfred Street Baptist Church Troop 133 Scoutmaster Bryan Nails and Deacon and Homeless Outreach minister Vernon Hammett Feb. 24 at ASBC.