WHILE many children are preparing for the festive season, 10-year-old Cub Scout Kayson Summerton of the 57th Trafalgar Scouts is working to ensure that no dog or cat at the Springfield SPCA goes hungry this holiday.

Also read: Trail of Lights to light up festive season in Durban

As part of his Leaping Wolf personal challenge — the highest achievement in the Cub Scout programme — Kayson has launched a community-driven pet food collection that is already gaining momentum.

A devoted animal lover with two dogs and a cat of his own, Kayson said the idea came naturally.

“I really love animals, especially dogs and cats. When I found out that some shelters don’t always have enough food for all the animals, I thought it would be a good idea to collect food so they wouldn’t go hungry.”

With guidance from his family and his Akela, he planned the initiative by designing posters, spreading the word at school, and rallying support from neighbours.

He chose the Springfield SPCA because of their dedication to caring for and rehoming animals, an organisation he supported before while earning his Pets Badge.

Kayson said the kindness of donors has been the most rewarding part.

“It makes me really happy when people bring bags of food and treats,” he said.

He also shared that the project has helped him grow personally.

“I am generally a very shy person, but I’ve got better at speaking to people and explaining why the project is important, and getting more kids involved in the Scouting programme.”

His efforts are expected to bring festive comfort to shelter animals.

“I think it will help make sure all the dogs and cats have enough to eat and feel loved during the holidays. It also gives the shelter more time and money to focus on taking care of the animals and finding them forever homes.”

Kayson’s project forms part of earning the Leaping Wolf badge, a milestone that marks the end of a Cub Scout’s journey and their readiness to progress to the Scout Troop.

Group Leader Paul Summerton, known in Scouting as Badger, explained its significance.

“The Leaping Wolf badge is the highest award a Cub Scout can earn in the Cub Scout programme of Scouts South Africa. It represents the moment when a Cub Scout is ready to ‘leap’ from the Cub Pack into the Scout Troop.

“Earning this badge shows that the Cub has grown in confidence, independence, teamwork, and responsibility. It symbolises personal growth, leadership, community service, and outdoor adventure which are the key values of Scouting.”

Badger added that projects like Kayson’s showcase the deeper purpose behind Scouting: to empower young people to impact their communities while developing lifelong skills.

Families interested in introducing their children to Scouting can contact the group on 069 422 2087 or email getinvolved@57thtrafalgarscouts.org.za to arrange a no-obligation trial period.

“Scouting is entirely volunteer-driven, and we rely on the support of our community,” said Badger.

“We’re currently seeking adult leaders and volunteers, as well as local businesses or tradespeople who can help us maintain and improve our facilities.

“Our Scout Hall roof and flooring need repair, and we especially welcome help from builders, plumbers, tilers, electricians, and handymen — whether to lend a hand with maintenance or to share their expertise by training or assessing Scouts on their practical badges.”

Donation drop-off points for Kayson’s Pet Food Drive
• Sourced4Paws at the Durban North Market
185 Lothian Road, Parkhill
Monday–Friday: 07:30–16:00
Saturday: 07:30–14:00

• 57th Trafalgar Sea Scout Hall
Hinton Grove, Virginia, Durban North
(On the same property as Bloomingdale Nursery)
Fridays: 16:30–19:30

• Direct collection in Durban North
Kayson’s mom, Angie, has offered to collect donations.
To arrange: 071 473 6963

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here