Halloween is all about costumes, candy and of course – fun! But for kids spending the holiday in hospitals, trick-or-treating in their neighborhood isn’t an option. That’s where Disney is stepping in with a magical twist on tradition!
What is Reverse Trick-Or-Treating, Anyways?
We all know trick-or-treating – the classic Halloween tradition where kids go door-to-door collecting candy. But have you heard of reverse trick-or-treating? This delightful twist on Halloween isn’t about gathering sweets; it’s about delivering treats to those who could use a little extra Halloween fun. This year, Mickey and Minnie took part in this unique activity to bring happiness to kids in the hospital.
Disney has worked with Starlight Children’s Foundation for over 20 years to bring happiness to hospitals throughout the United States, as well as deliveries of themed hospital wear, care packages, and more.
“We are so grateful to collaborate with Disney to help hospitalized kids and their families celebrate the Halloween season. Our collaboration allows us to transform the hospital experience for kids across the country through play-centered programs that provide entertainment and positive distraction, bringing smiles to kids when they need it most,” said Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Delivering Costumes and Halloween Happiness
The spirit of giving was taken to the next level with unforgettable Halloween visits at children’s hospitals across the country. Thanks to Disney VoluntEARS and Ambassadors, patients received Disney toys, plush, books and costumes based on their favorite stories.
These magical costume deliveries wouldn’t have been possible without support from our guests across the country. Earlier this year, Disney kicked off an initiative to donate a Halloween costume to Starlight Children’s Foundation for each one purchased on DisneyStore.com. These purchases unlocked the maximum donation from Disney of 20,000 Halloween costumes to Starlight.
And we can’t forget about the extraordinary adaptive costumes and wheelchair wraps that ensured everyone could be part of these special moments. The adaptive costumes are designed to be as magical as they are functional, with features like self-stick fabric closures, flap openings on the front for easy tube access and longer lengths to accommodate seated guests. Wheelchair wraps are built with accessibility, durability and ease of use in mind.
Mickey and Minnie Show Off Their “Halloween Best”
Of course, Halloween isn’t complete without our favorite duo! Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, dressed to impress in their Halloween outfits, made special appearances at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in Tampa and Children’s Hospital of Orange County in California. With “ear-to-ear” smiles, they met patients in the lobby and visited kids who were unable to leave their rooms.
These efforts are part of Disney and Starlight Children’s Foundation’s 20-year collaboration and Disney’s $100 million commitment to help reimagine the patient experience in children’s hospitals around the world. To learn more about this work visit Joy.Disney.com.