Cub Scout Service Project Makes an Impact for Pediatric Patients

Warrenton, VA (November 10, 2023) –Cub Scout Pack 1166 Wolf Den located out of Warrenton, Va, created and delivered handmade Jared Boxes for the pediatric visitors at Fauquier Hospital, this October. 

For many children, the hospital experience can seem overwhelming, but that feeling can quickly change with some encouragement and a friendly gift.

For over 20 years, more than 1,000,000 Jared Boxes filled with activities have been delivered by various community service groups to put smiles on pediatric patients and visitors at hospitals across the country. The Cub Scouts from Cub Scout Pack 1166 Wolf Den explained how Jared Boxes are helpful for kids who are waiting because it gives them activities to do. Some of these activities include fidget toys, coloring pages, and other fun toys.

Cub Scout Leader Sarah Shilling, wanted to propose an impactful service project for younger children to get involved in giving back to their communities.

The Jared Box Project allows young volunteers to help others their age in a meaningful way. Children have firsthand experience as to which games and activities are popular among their peers and are always excited about creating and personalizing their boxes.

“I always encourage them to look for the helpers (in a bad situation.) It is empowering to have them be the helpers in this case," Shilling said. 

Cub Scout leader Matthew Martinez volunteers with Little Fork Volunteer Fire and Rescue, a local EMS that transports many patients to Fauquier Hospital. He felt that providing gifts to children needing medical care could distract them from their worries 

“I see many kids upset and scared during transport. I wanted to do something to brighten their day and get the Cub Scouts involved," Martinez said. 

Other leaders also knew Jared Boxes can have an uplifted affect on children 

“My son was one of the first surgical cases to be done during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Masks and COVID testing were scary for him, but he received a Jared Box. That act provided him comfort and helped ease his nerves,” said Cub Scout leader Jess Laurent. 

After the delivery in October, Fauquier Health gained an important resource available for many pediatric patients who may feel a bit anxious about being in a hospital setting.

"On behalf of the Fauquier Health system, we are grateful for the Cub Scouts’ efforts in creating a deeper sense of community for our patients,"  said a spokesperson for Fauquier Health.