While Halloween is typically associated with costumes, candy, and spooky thrills, a group of students from Goddard High School in Kansas have found a unique way to celebrate the holiday. For over two decades, the school's Drama Club has been going door-to-door on Halloween, not in search of sugary treats, but rather collecting canned goods to support those in need within their community.

Giving Back, One Can at a Time

A Tradition of Community Service

Since 2001, the Goddard High School Drama Club has made it a priority to use Halloween as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their local community. Rather than the traditional trick-or-treating routine, these students have dedicated their time and effort to gathering non-perishable food items to donate to those facing food insecurity."When you finally get to the end, and you see all the food that everybody has collected, it's just really good vibes," shared Megan Emmell, a senior at Goddard High School. The sense of accomplishment and pride the students feel in their collective efforts is palpable, and many return year after year to continue this impactful tradition.

Dressing Up for a Cause

While the students may be "too old for trick-or-treating," as senior Nick Busse pointed out, they still get to enjoy the fun of dressing up in costumes and going door-to-door. "You get to dress up, and you get to go knocking on doors. People say you're too old for trick-or-treating, but we're not just trick-or-treating; we're giving back," Busse explained.The opportunity to don their favorite Halloween attire and engage with the community adds an element of excitement and enjoyment to the experience. It's a chance for the students to embrace the spirit of the holiday while also making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

A Reflection of Community Spirit

For sophomore Austin Oswald-Harris, the annual canned food drive is a testament to the generosity and compassion of the Goddard community. "It just makes me feel good about where our community is," he shared, acknowledging the support and contributions of the local residents.The students expressed their gratitude for the Goddard community, whose ongoing support and participation have made this tradition a resounding success year after year. By working together to collect and donate these essential food items, the community as a whole is able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity.

A Lasting Impact

The Goddard High School Drama Club's canned food drive is more than just a one-day event; it's a testament to the power of community service and the positive change that can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. The students' dedication and the community's support have created a lasting impact, ensuring that those in need within the Goddard area have access to the nourishment they require.As the students continue to carry on this tradition, they are not only making a tangible difference in their community but also instilling the values of compassion, generosity, and civic engagement in the next generation. This Halloween, the Goddard High School Drama Club is proving that the true spirit of the holiday lies not in the pursuit of candy, but in the act of giving back to those who need it most.

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, a young boy's missed holidays due to a chronic illness were transformed into a celebration of joy and togetherness. When a Facebook event brought the community together to ensure this special child experienced the magic of Halloween, the outpouring of support and generosity left a lasting impact on all involved.

Bringing Halloween to a Deserving Child

A Chronic Illness Disrupts Childhood Milestones

Kairo Robinson, a 5-year-old boy, has faced significant health challenges due to a chronic illness related to asthma. This condition has resulted in him missing out on important holidays and celebrations, including Halloween, since he was just 2 years old. The missed opportunities to partake in the festivities and traditions that bring so much joy to children his age had taken a toll on Kairo and his family.

A Community Rallies to Bring the Holiday to Kairo

Determined to ensure Kairo didn't miss out on the magic of Halloween yet again, the community sprang into action. Tiffany Lancaster, the organizer of the event, expressed the sentiment that resonated with many: "This little boy deserves Halloween, just like all these other little kids, so we're going to do our best to bring it to him." Friends, neighbors, and even strangers came together to surround Kairo and his family with an abundance of candy and Halloween spirit, creating a truly memorable experience.

The Heartwarming Response from Kairo and His Family

Kairo's mother, Alyssa Hollos, was deeply touched by the community's outpouring of support. She acknowledged the challenges they had faced, stating, "It's been a rough few months for us. He's been in and out of the hospital over the last month and out of doctor's offices." However, the joy and excitement Kairo experienced on this special day were palpable. As the night came to a close, Kairo had just one simple, yet heartfelt, message for everyone who had shown up to celebrate with him: "Thank you!"

A Lasting Impact on the Community

The community's response to Kairo's situation serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of compassion and togetherness. By coming together to ensure this young boy could experience the joys of a cherished holiday, the community not only brought happiness to Kairo but also strengthened the bonds that tie them together. This heartwarming event has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on all who were involved, inspiring others to embrace the spirit of community and make a difference in the lives of those in need.