The event will take place in the parking lot at the Burlington County Administration Building in Mt. Holly.
Burlington County officials say children with special needs in Burlington County will soon have a new opportunity to safely participate in a family-favorite Halloween activity, thanks to a partnership between Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders Director Kate Gibbs, Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield and an array of first responders from local communities.
The officials have announced that they are hosting the county’s first-ever “Trunk or Treat” from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, in the parking lot at the Burlington County Administration Building in Mt. Holly.
Officials say the free event was planned in response to the “overwhelmingly positive feedback” that was received during a similar Easter egg hunt held in the spring.
“I am thrilled to host our second event this year for children with special needs,” Gibbs said. “During our egg hunt in March, I heard over and over how parents have been searching for an event just like it for their kids and sincerely appreciated the county’s efforts. I knew then that we had to do more. I can’t wait for our ‘Trunk or Treat’ and hope to see many of the same parents and children back again.”
Officials describe the “Trunk or Treat” event as a a new spin on trick-or-treating, when the traditional Halloween activity is done from parked car to parked car instead of house to house.
Parents can keep a watchful eye on their children as they collect candy and snacks in a welcoming environment.
Officials say the Freeholder’s Office, Sheriff’s Department and local first responders will all be participating with decorated vehicles at the upcoming “Trunk or Treat” event. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite costume and bring a trick-or-treat bag.
“After the amazing response to our inaugural Easter egg hunt earlier this year, we knew we had to build off of that success and organize another event specifically for children with special needs,” said Stanfield, who added that the “Trunk or Treat” event will provide a great opportunity for children of all ages to interact with first responders. “Our ‘Trunk or Treat’ allows kids to have safe Halloween fun; their parents don’t have to worry about traffic or crossing the street, all while we come together as a community during a fun social event.”
In March, Gibbs and Stanfield hosted an Easter egg hunt for children with special needs at the County Administration Building. Children participated in small groups and were aided by sound, flashing light and magnetic devices.
Participants had the opportunity to enhance socialization with their peers, and increase independence and decision-making skills.
Parents and their children who are interested in attending the “Trunk or Treat” should pre-register before Wednesday, Oct. 24, by calling (609) 265–3788 or emailing amaybury@co.burlington.nj.us.
The event is open to children of all ages with special needs. Peanut-free food and other light refreshments will be provided. The county administration building is located at 49 Rancocas Road in Mt. Holly.
A rain date for this event is Sunday, Oct. 28.
