Holland America announced in a press release that pennies totaling $5,000 from six Holland America Line and six Princess Cruises ships sailing in Alaska have been donated to Scouting America Troop 4 and Troop 2004 during a community event in Ketchikan, Alaska, on Friday, July 10.
The initiative gives new purpose to excess shipboard pennies, transforming them into funding for local Scouts while celebrating both companies’ longstanding relationship with Alaska port communities.
“What began as a practical challenge aboard our ships became a unique opportunity to create something positive for a community that has welcomed our guests for generations,” said Robert Morgenstern, senior vice president of the Alaska operations of Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.
“We’re proud to partner with the Ketchikan Scouts and help turn thousands of pennies into resources that will support leadership development, service and future opportunities for local youth,” added Morgenstern.
Crew members aboard the Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam, which have been sailing Alaska all summer, worked together to collect, count and prepare nearly 1,000 pounds of pennies for donation.
In the days leading up to the event, the coins were offloaded from the ships in Ketchikan with the help of local partners, then presented to the Scouts.
Holland America Line was joined in the effort by sister brand Princess Cruises, which also contributed pennies collected from the Discovery Princess, Star Princess, Ruby Princess, Royal Princess, Grand Princess and Coral Princess.
On Friday, Scout leaders and troop members gathered in Ketchikan to receive the coins.
According to the press release, the funds will support local scouting activities and provide additional resources for future programs and community service initiatives.
Troops 4 and 2004 are an active part of the Ketchikan community, creating opportunities for young people to challenge themselves through outdoor adventures, leadership experiences and community service.
