HILLSDALE–When Webelos Pack 331 set out to collect discarded pumpkins after Halloween, their mission was simple but impactful: turn potential food waste into nourishment for rescued farm animals. Led by den leader Vanessa Hefa, the scouts gathered approximately 100 pumpkins from local homes, businesses, and even Borough Hall castoff displays, delivering them to Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve in Montague Township—a refuge for more than 250 animals.
Photo: Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve
“We noticed that too many pumpkins in our town were going to end up in trash cans,” Hefa told Pascack Press on Nov. 25. “I involved the Webelos in collecting pumpkins to bring to the animals. When I reached out to Tamerlaine Sanctuary, they were thrilled with the idea.”
On a brisk Saturday morning, three families packed their vehicles with pumpkins and made the 90-minute drive to Tamerlaine Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Montague Township, which provides a refuge for animals rescued from factory farms, neglect, and abuse. Founded by Gabrielle Stubbert and Peter Nussbaum, the sanctuary is a permanent home for cows, pigs, goats, chickens, turkeys, and other animals. Its mission extends beyond animal care, encompassing humane education, environmental advocacy, and land preservation.
The sanctuary stewards 336 acres, creating habitats for threatened wildlife such as Monarch butterflies and Golden-winged warblers while educating on sustainable living and the ethical treatment of animals. Through tours, school visits, and volunteer opportunities, Tamerlaine fosters understanding and compassion.
“The animals were overjoyed with such a delicious offering,” Hefa told us. Photos from the day show Webelos Daylan Hefa, Leilani Hefa, Grayson Brown, Kai Dominguez, and Ryan Conway gleefully feeding the animals. For the scouts, it was more than just a service project. “The kids were so excited to have a close encounter with the animals,” Hefa said.
The visit included a guided tour of the sanctuary led by Stubbert, who shared the stories of animals rescued from neglect or abuse. The scouts learned about Tamerlaine’s mission to provide lifelong care and a permanent home for farm animals, some of whom arrived after narrowly escaping slaughterhouses.
“At Tamerlaine Sanctuary, every animal is welcomed with open arms and cared for by a devoted team,” Stubbert told Pascack Press on Nov. 25. “We carefully assess their health and provide the best medical attention. More than a safe haven, our sanctuary is a permanent home where animals are cherished as members of our family. Here, they find the peace, love, and security they deserve for the rest of their days.”
This experience left a lasting impression on the scouts. Hefa said the pumpkin drive taught them about teamwork, sustainability, and giving back.
“The members of the community were delighted to know their pumpkins were feeding animals instead of going to waste,” she said. “It was inspiring for the kids to see how small actions can make such a big difference.”
She said she hopes the effort becomes an annual tradition.