ST. PAUL – Halloween is just around the corner and the St. Paul Regional Family & Support Services (FCSS) is hosting yet again its Safe and Sweet Halloween on Oct. 31.
The hours-long event includes the “Trick or Treat” free drive-by and treat bag pick-up at the Recreation Centre from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Then, at 7 p.m., there will be a showing of the movie Monster House at the Elite Theatre, free for all.
The theatre has limited seating and is on a first come, first-serve basis.
Safe and Sweet is a community event sponsored by local businesses and organizations, according to FCSS director Lynn Smid.
“We normally prepare around 500 goodie bags that can be picked up that evening [of Oct.31] at the [St. Paul Recreation Centre.]”
Smid said the event’s drive-by format had worked well because it is easier for parents and their children to participate as a family. She added trick-or-treating children could also grab a bag from the FCSS.
In addition, the event also “allows us to greet newcomers to the community,” according to Smid. “It’s just a way for us to connect again with the community,” she said.
According to Smid, the event is also a platform to answer inquiries on what the FCSS is about, in addition to informing people about the available community support services in St. Paul.
Last year’s Safe and Sweet Halloween was a success, according to Smid, and saw close to 700 individuals drive by the Recreation Centre and she invites the community to come and check it out.
Trick or Treat hours this Halloween in St. Paul are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Costume contest
The St. Paul Youth Council (SPYC), a volunteer group of youths in Grades 7-12, is also presenting a digital Halloween Costume Contest. People can send their entries on Facebook with the “#SPYC” hashtag from Oct. 28 to Nov. 4.
There are five different categories in addition to a pet category, and “all they have to do is submit a photo in those different age categories and comment on those categories,” said Smid.
For more details on the costume contest, interested individuals can call 780-645-5311.
