The Havre de Grace Housing Authority (HDGHA) is collecting new and gently used costumes and accessories of all sizes to provide dress-up fun for youngsters at the organization’s “Trunk or Treat” community Halloween party on October 26.
Halloween is no fun without a costume, but sometimes families in need simply cannot afford the luxury of buying one. That’s why the Havre de Grace Housing Authority is collecting donations of dress-ups, so every child in the community can have the opportunity to participate in trick or treat. Donations of new and gently used costumes and accessories of all sizes will be accepted through October 25 and shared with guests at the non-profit’s annual Trunk or Treat party the next day. Once kids have selected their outfits from available items, they can parade around the neighborhood to receive candy and other handouts from the registered participants at their parked and decorated cars. The free event is open to the public and takes place Saturday, October 26 from 5:00-7:00pm on the grounds of the Housing Authority, with check in at the management office, 101 Stansbury Court in Havre de Grace.
2019 marks the third year that HDGHA has collected costumes and hosted the Trunk or Treat, and according to organizers, participation continues to grow with many local businesses, service organizations, churches and individuals already registered, including Havre de Grace Police Department, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority – Omicron Chi Zeta Chapter, Ninja Abingdon Martial Arts, Maryland Transportation Authority, and Steps Recovery.
Nicki Biggs, the Acting Executive Director of the Housing Authority explains, “This event is rewarding for everyone, from the residents and staff who look forward to showcasing the neighborhood; to those who get into the spirit of the holiday and go all-out to decorate their vehicles; to the businesses and churches that get to introduce area newcomers to their services; and of course for the children who enjoy it most of all. It’s also an easy way for others to give back and up-cycle still usable Halloween items, so it’s really a win-win-win all around.” She adds, “Our community is built on helping families in big and small ways whether they live here or not, and the Trunk or Treat is a perfect example of that. We are eager to welcome guests and glad to provide this free, safe and fun holiday activity to all.”
The deadline for receipt of costume donations is October 25. For additional information about the Trunk or Treat and to register as a participating car visit www.hdgha.org/Trunk-or-Treat .
About the Havre de Grace Housing Authority:
HDGHA established the Somerset Manor community in the 1970’s and is the only public housing facility in Harford County. It is governed by a Board of Commissioners and managed by a small staff. The mission of the organization is to provide quality, affordable housing opportunities for moderate to low income individuals and families while promoting self-sufficiency, empowerment and neighborhood revitalization. HDGHA offers a range of programs to achieve this goal, including the Self- Sufficiency Program (FSS), Homeownership Program, Housing Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities and more.
