LONGMEADOW – Girl Scout Troop 12808 needs the community’s help filling their clothing donation boxes that are scattered around town.

As apart of their Bronze Award project, the girls of Troop 12808 decided they wanted to help out those in need.  This Girl Scout Troop is no stranger to helping others, as in previous years they’ve created bags of winter clothing items and hung them in Springfield’s Court Square.  This year, they’ve decided to ask local businesses to allow them to place collections bins for their patrons to drop off items.

When the donation period is complete on Jan. 5, the girls will be donating some of the items to the Springfield Rescue Mission and will be hanging bags of winter gear in Court Square, once again.  On the bags, according to troop mother Lori Nicaretta, the girls write a simple message.

“These are not lost, they are a gift.  If you need them, please take them,” Nicaretta said.

Additionally, the Girl Scouts will hang scarves and jackets on outdoor poles.

Troop 12808 is in search of gently used hats, gloves, scarves, coats, snow pants and backpacks, as well as new socks, toiletries and hand and foot warmers. 

Donation boxes are featured at 12 businesses in Longmeadow including the Storrs Library at 693 Longmeadow St. in Longmeadow, Kiddly Winks at 801 Williams St. in Longmeadow, Healthtrax at 45 Crane Ave. in East Longmeadow, and The Kitchen at 791 Williams St. in Longmeadow.