Embracing the Spirit of Halloween: A Heartwarming Partnership Between South Texas Health System Children’s and Spirit Halloween
As the leaves turn and the air fills with the scent of pumpkin spice, the Halloween season brings with it a sense of excitement and joy. This year, South Texas Health System Children’s (STHS Children’s) has teamed up with Spirit Halloween to create a memorable experience for pediatric patients who may otherwise miss out on the festivities. This partnership is a shining example of how community support can make a significant difference in the lives of children facing health challenges.
A Tradition of Giving
For over five years, Spirit Halloween has been a steadfast supporter of STHS Children’s through its national Spirit of Children initiative. This program is designed to provide developmental, educational, and therapeutic interventions that help children and families navigate the often daunting hospital experience. By donating a portion of the proceeds from Halloween costume sales, Spirit Halloween has contributed nearly $260,000 to the Child Life Department at STHS Children’s over the past five years.
Kim Davis, MBA, BSN, RN, and Pediatric Administrator at STHS Children’s, emphasizes the impact of these donations: “From sensory play equipment to arts & crafts supplies, Spirit Halloween’s generous contributions have provided a welcome distraction for our patients. Throughout the week, we’re able to host a variety of activities that not only reduce anxiety and stress but also bring smiles to their faces.”
Bringing Halloween to Hospitalized Children
The partnership between STHS Children’s and Spirit Halloween goes beyond financial support. Every October, the two organizations collaborate to host a special Halloween party at the hospital, ensuring that children who are hospitalized can still partake in the joy of the season. Whitney Thompson, district sales manager for Spirit Halloween in the Rio Grande Valley, shares the motivation behind this event: “This annual Spirit of Children Halloween Party is our special way of giving back to the community and bringing the spirit of Halloween to kids who otherwise wouldn’t be able to celebrate.”
During the party, children receive free costumes and treats, and they can engage in Halloween-themed arts and crafts activities and games. This year’s event took place on October 16, in the STHS Children’s playroom, where dozens of children and their families gathered to celebrate.
A Day of Joy and Distraction
The joy of the Halloween party is palpable, as evidenced by the experiences of the children who attend. Francisco, a young patient at STHS Children’s, expressed his excitement: “I got to pick my costume and create some cool art. This was so exciting; it really made my day.” His mother, Margarita Castillo, echoed this sentiment, noting how the event provided a much-needed distraction for her son during a challenging time: “As a mom, it’s so good to see him smile, especially after spending the last few days in his hospital room.”
For those patients unable to attend the party due to medical restrictions, hospital staff ensured that they still received costumes and could participate in arts and crafts from their rooms, ensuring that no child was left out of the festivities.
Continuing the Spirit of Giving
This year, Spirit Halloween is once again raising funds to benefit the Child Life Department at STHS Children’s. Customers can support this initiative by using a special coupon at any of the five Spirit Halloween stores in the Rio Grande Valley. With every purchase made using the coupon, 10% of the sale will be donated to the Auxiliary to STHS, helping to fund vital resources such as art supplies, music, movies, games, and pet therapy.
The participating Spirit Halloween store locations include:
- McAllen I: 2901 N. 10th St., McAllen, TX 78501
- McAllen II: 1801 S. 10th St., McAllen, TX 78503
- Weslaco: 1025 Texas Blvd. North, Suite 9, Weslaco, TX 78596
- Harlingen: 1106 S. Expressway 83, Harlingen, TX 78552
- Brownsville: 2436 A Pablo Kisel Blvd., Brownsville, TX 78526
For more information on how to support the Spirit of Children initiative while saving on Halloween costumes, visit STHSChildrens.com.
The Heart of Community Support
The annual Halloween party and the ongoing support from Spirit Halloween highlight the importance of community involvement in healthcare. It’s a reminder that even in the most challenging times, the spirit of joy and celebration can prevail, bringing smiles and laughter to those who need it most. As the Halloween season unfolds, the partnership between STHS Children’s and Spirit Halloween continues to illuminate the lives of young patients, proving that kindness and generosity can create lasting memories and foster hope.