Jonathan Yacktman assembled 1,000 backpacks that were stuffed with blankets, socks, toiletries and snacks for Mobile Loaves and Fishes for his Eagle Scout Project. They were distributed from our trucks and at the annual St. Edwards University Resource Fair that MLF partners with. Those in need were so grateful because backpacks are a hot commodity. They wear out quickly and oftentimes get thrown away by road crews cleaning up. The homeless leave them under bridges and in other obscure places when they go to work or to run errands only to come back and they are gone. The police also will often not let them take their belongings with them when they are hauled into jail for a pedestrian in a roadway or panhandling ticket. When they are released several hours later, all of their worldly possessions are gone. This is what Mr. Yacktman had to say about his experience:
“I am so thankful to Mobile Loaves and Fishes for letting me do my Boy Scout Eagle Project through them. My project – to deliver 1,000 backpacks to the homeless community – was a great success. I sought and received many donations in order to fill all 1,000 backpacks with useful supplies. The time spent by the approximately 70 volunteers on my project added up to more than 360 hours. One benefit I gained from the project was progressing through Boy Scouts to the Eagle rank by practicing leadership. A few of my volunteers have said that it was pleasing for them to serve the homeless community. 1,000 members of the homeless community benefitted with a backpack filled with personal items for hygiene, warmth and nourishment. I would like to thank Austin’s Buckman Orthodontics, Pepsico, and Proctor and Gamble for their generous donation of dental floss, toothbrushes, toothpaste, healthy snacks, deodorant, and body wash. I am grateful for monetary donations and the hard work my volunteers gave to this effort. My family was a great support throughout the whole project. I encourage others to work with Mobile Loaves and Fishes to strengthen out community.” – Jonathan Yacktman.