You are never too young to serve and share as the Bush Hill, Randpark Ridge, and Parkmore Meerkats recently proved.

As part of their Community Badge the Meerkats made a combined whopping 67 Bags and Jars of Hope, equating to 268 meals, that were donated to the Renew Church’s City Renewal Foundation that distributes resources to those in need.

“At their age it can be difficult for Meerkats to understand the significance of sharing with others less fortunate,” explains Den Scouter Debbie Symons. “Through our programmes we have been driving the “sharing is caring” message. Through play and practical projects children learn at a young age that sharing with others is a good thing. As part of the programme we played “sharing games” like a pass the parcel where the final prize was a box of smarties that was shared among the Meerkats. We did an old clothing drive and got a lot more than the 67 items we were aiming for, and then did the Bags and Jars of Hope.

The Meerkats enjoyed putting them together as they measured it themselves – with some adult support – and saw the layers develop. They also each made a label that was added to the jar or bag they made. At the end I think everyone had a wow moment, both parents and Meerkats. Seeing what we had accomplished and knowing that it was going to a worthwhile cause was a good moment,” says Debbie proudly.

Bush Hill Assistant Den Scouter Yvette Baker agrees. “Seeing it all coming together was a special moment for everyone. The Meerkats really did their best and were so concentrated on the measuring and getting the ingredients in the bags and jars. Exposing young children to community service is so important. At five years old they don’t understand the bigger picture, but they do understand that they have done something good for someone else.

In fact, just before we packed the Jars of Hope, we did a “community worker thank you project”. We bought little flowerpots that the Meerkats decorated and then they each planted a pretty pansy in their pots. They made a thank you card to go with it and were told to give it to somebody in the community that helps others. One Meerkat gave it to his teacher; one gave it to his granny as she cares for him after school and another gave it to her mom who was sick to cheer her up. Each Meerkat found somebody in their community to give their gift to.”

“In the upcoming term we will be focusing on our reading badge,” continues Debbie.” As part of a Woodbadge legacy project a free library at our Scout Hall was created. We will be encouraging our Meerkats to bring one of their books and swop it for another.

If we teach children at a young age that service through sharing and giving to the less fortunate is important, they will carry that awareness with them as they grow up.”