Kentucky Children’s Hospital Launches Reverse Trick-or-Treating to Bring Halloween Joy to Hospitalized Kids

LEXINGTON, Ky. — An estimated 72.8 million children across the United States are anticipated to participate in trick-or-treating this Halloween, according to the United States Bureau. However, not every child is able to experience the tradition of going door-to-door for candy. In response, the Kentucky Children’s Hospital has introduced an innovative approach known as reverse trick-or-treating.

Physician-in-Chief Scott Day highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “We have a lot of kids throughout the state of Kentucky who aren’t able to trick or treat. We want them to still have that experience.” The program allows volunteers to dress up and bring festive activities directly to children unable to leave their hospital rooms.

This beloved tradition began in 2017 and has since become a significant annual event within the Lexington community. “People talk about it year-round,” Day noted, emphasizing the excitement surrounding preparations for costumes and activities.

Participants this year included groups of students and staff from the University of Kentucky, who donned coordinated costumes ranging from Ghostbusters to characters from Shrek and the Toy Story franchise. Even the university’s mascot, Scratch, made an appearance dressed as Woody.

Volunteers like Kimberly Blanton expressed the significance of the event, stating, “It’s important to take care of the kids. They can’t get out, and this is important to them to have people come through and kind of trick or treat with them.” Day added, “We get to see what it’s like to bring a little bit of normal to them.”

This year’s reverse trick-or-treating event was the largest to date, with more than 100 groups registered to participate. Day remarked, “I think it’s just another example of the community commitment, not just to the University of Kentucky, but really to the children’s hospital and to the future generations.”

As Halloween approaches, this initiative continues to foster a sense of camaraderie among participants and provides a joyful experience for children who are confined to the hospital. The community’s support highlights the power of inclusivity and compassion during the holiday season.