Pocono News Section

Boy Scouts Losing Home to Catholic Diocese Consolidation

Boy Scouts Losing Home to Catholic Diocese Consolidation - Monday, December 28, 2009 at 4:39PM EST

Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Monday, Dec 28, 2009 @ 04:39pm EST

DUNMORE, LACKAWANNA COUNTY -- Boy Scout Troop 66 has a long history in Dunmore and at St. Anthony's recreation hall.

"So much of the family and kids have come through here - it's been a tradition to be here," said Troop 66 Scoutmaster, Dominic Pace.

Troop 66 started its meetings here back in 1933. But as part of the Scranton Catholic Diocese consolidation plan, buildings have to be sold, including the recreation hall.

"Now we're left with nowhere to go really," said Pace.

The church offered Troop 66 another building to use, but scout leaders say the space is a bit too small. That's why they're asking the community for help.

"We're growing," said Pace. "Right now we have 46 boy scouts, and in February, we're looking to have 12 more come in."

He says two local businesses offered Troop 66 storage space for its equipment, but Pace says they still need a building for meetings.

"We need a place, probably 40 by 40, to have a warm place to meet," said Pace. "And it's either one or two days a week for two hours in the evening, so that would take care of it."

Pace says they're not asking for anyone to build a new hall, but he's hoping somebody can let them use space in an existing building. You can call Pace at 961-1812.