The Animal Welfare Association’s annual Howl-O-Ween event this year is a trunk or treat on Sunday, Oct. 24.
The shelter is currently accepting corporate and nonprofit sponsorships for the event. Nonprofits will pay a $50 fee and businesses $100. Event manager Meggin Olivio said AWA is expecting about 500 attendees, with possible overflow parking at Hope Church across the street from the shelter.
“This will be the first (trunk or treat) since COVID,” Olivio said. “It’s pretty similar to what it has been in the past; it’s all outside. There will be pumpkin decorating, games, and the humane education department will have a tent featuring Halloween-inspired animal facts, like creepy black cat facts,” said Olivio. “There will also be a scavenger hunt on the walking trails (behind the shelter).”
Guests are welcome to wear costumes and bring their animals. While doggie costumes are by no means required, they are encouraged. There will also be animal-themed trunks.
“The trunks themselves are going to be provided by us (AWA), businesses and nonprofit sponsors,” Olivio said. “If a family wants to come and trick or treat that is free, but for businesses, it’s a promotional opportunity where they can not only hand out candy or treats, but hand out promotional gear from their business.”
Olivio noted that all businesses and trunk sponsors should keep in mind possible food allergies among trick or treaters. Bakeries or food marts can instead hand out sweet treats such as cookies, cupcakes, muffins or bread. Already registered as sponsors are Pet Supply Plus – which will offer free samples of dog friendly treats – Triple AAA South Jersey and the Voorhees Ballet Theater.
The inside of the shelter will be open for tours and for community members who would like to see some of the adoptable animals. AWA also welcomes those who would like to purchase merchandise from its retail store.
For more information on the trunk or treat and all things AWA, visit its website and Facebook page.
