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Teen conducts a project to provide homeless with basic necessities.
by Debra Tomlin –
To complete an Eagle Scout project, 17-year-old Evan Pestalozzi coordinated fundraising in Troutdale, Ore., to purchase sleeping bags and hygiene kits for the homeless at The Salvation Army’s Harbor Light in Portland.
Pestalozzi began by writing letters to businesses, family and friends encouraging them to donate supplies for the cause, and sure enough, the supplies began to come in. Local dentists donated toothbrushes and toothpaste, a dermatologist donated first aid items such as antibiotic ointment, and many people donated sleeping bags. With fellow scouts from Troutdale Scout Troup 174, Pestalozzi organized can drives and a garage sale.
With the $1,000 raised, Pestalozzi was able to deliver 50 sleeping bags and 100 personal hygiene kits to the Harbor Light program.
Before deciding on a project, the scout said he didn’t want to just improve forest trails or build playground equipmenthe said he wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. In particular, he wanted to help the homeless.
Pestalozzi hopes to attend Western Oregon University to obtain a degree in law enforcement and wants to become a Junior Scout Master so he can inspire others to reach out, help the needy, and make a difference one life at a time.