Anchorage Scout Troop's Trailer Filled with $10K in Gear Stolen

The troop is raising funds to replace the stolen camping equipment after the trailer was taken overnight.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 5:39am

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The trailer of Scouting America Troop 220 in Anchorage, Alaska, was stolen, containing around $8,000 to $10,000 worth of camping gear including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. The troop, which serves 32 members across the East Side of Anchorage, relies on this gear for their outdoor activities and adventures. Scoutmaster Sam Giacalone says the theft has been devastating, but the resilient troop members are pushing forward to find a way to replace the stolen items.

Why it matters

The theft of the troop's essential camping gear has disrupted the activities and opportunities for the young Scouts, who have worked hard to earn these resources. The loss of thousands of dollars' worth of equipment is a significant setback for the troop, which is the only one serving families across the East Side of Anchorage.

The details

The trailer, which was locked and buried in the snow, was likely towed away overnight by a large vehicle. Scoutmaster Giacalone says the troop is devastated by the theft, but the Scouts are determined to find a way to continue their programming. Parents have stepped up to lend their own gear to keep the troop's activities going.

  • The trailer was stolen on January 15, 2026.
  • As of early February 4, 2026, the troop's GoFundMe page had raised over $13,000 of its $10,000 goal.

The players

Scouting America Troop 220

A Scouting troop serving 32 members across the East Side of Anchorage, Alaska.

Sam Giacalone

The Scoutmaster of Scouting America Troop 220.

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What they’re saying

“It's hard to describe, but it kind of puts a pit in your stomach, sinks your heart a bit that all that hard work and stuff that you know that is there to help the kids just up and disappears.”

— Sam Giacalone, Scoutmaster

“They're active and resilient. We figure out a way to make it work.”

— Sam Giacalone, Scoutmaster

What’s next

The troop has filed a police report, but the stolen trailer has not yet been located. The troop is continuing to fundraise through a GoFundMe page to replace the stolen camping gear.

The takeaway

This theft has been a devastating blow to the Scouting troop, which relies on this essential camping equipment to provide outdoor opportunities and adventures for the young Scouts. However, the troop's resilience and the community's support demonstrate the importance of these programs and the determination to ensure the Scouts can continue their activities.