Local library helping special needs children enjoy the Halloween spirit
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Paul Beam, KPVI
CHUBBUCK — With just a little over a week away from Halloween, the Portneuf District Library kicked things off a little early.
KPVI visited their special needs ‘trunk or treat’ on Saturday to find out how they are working to give everyone a Happy Halloween.
The library parking lot was packed with kids dressed up in costumes. The third annual special needs trunk or treat was the biggest yet, with cars lining the entire lot with most offering alternatives to candy.
“The children are included when they come here they know that it is safe and it’s welcoming,” Children’s librarian Amanda Bowden said. “And they can still participate and not be excluded because of those needs or restrictions (caused) because of a disability.”
The library offers books and toys as alternatives to candy, and most cars have several different options for those of different needs, including a Nightmare Before Christmas themed car.
The owners of the car said that they spent about two hours decorating it after one of their favorite movies, and they put in the effort so that every kid can be included in the fun of the holiday.
“We want to make sure everyone who comes feels equally welcome so they have an opportunity to participate,” Rachel Byers said. “So you want to have options for those who have dietary restriction or who can’t have candy… We want to make sure everyone could come and enjoy being at our little car.”
Several organizations brought their vehicles out including ISU’s College of Technology, and Journey’s Development Disability Center.
Kids volunteered to dress up as superheroes and Disney princesses to take pictures with the rest of the kids.
Proceeds from the event go to the libraries special needs Easter Egg Hunt.
This article was originally published by KPVI. It is used here with permission.