Local Girl Scout Troops have begun to take orders for girl scout cookies for 2019, raising money for public service projects and to attend various camps.

Troop Leader Jennifer Sedlock tells KNIA News girls will be out in the area selling the delicious treats, but this is much more than a fundraiser.

“They learn about planning, decision making, goal making, and business ethics. We really strive hard for helping them set goals and achieve not only as an individual but as a group, as a team to get those things that they need to raise the money for community service projects, for camp, to earn badges, all those things they need to do as a troop.”

The scouts will also be debuting a new cookie this year, a carmel-chocolate chip cookie with a hint of sea salt, and it is gluten-free, soy-free, wheat-free, and nut-free for those with allergies. There is also a new smartphone app titled “Cookiefinder”, which will direct you to a location where the scouts will be selling. Cookies will be available until March 17th.