Trunk or Treat Great Fun
Several years ago, Pine Island Community Church pastor Heidi Grueser recognized there was a need for a safe and secure place for island children to celebrate Halloween. She also knew there were residents who loved to have children come to their doors trick or treating but there were few children in their neighborhoods. Thus began Trunk or Treat.
“Look at all the vehicles that people took the time to decorate,” said volunteer Nancy Benjamin. “These folks not only get a lot of pleasure from seeing the kids in their costumes but also from knowing many of our island children wouldn’t otherwise be having such fun at Halloween.”
Ken Duckmann, a church member and one of the organizers of the event, confirmed that the 2011 Trunk or Treat had brought out over 30 vehicles. “We had about 26 pre-register,” he said, “but then others came and asked if there was room for them. We made the room. It’s all about the children.
“The parents of these children really appreciate this Halloween event,” Duckmann continued. “Not only is it safe, but the children get treats such as candy, coloring books and crayons, and plastic jewelry such as spider and skull rings.”
Just then, a volunteer came over and said he was getting low on candy. “Try Winn Dixie or CVS,” Duckmann told him. “They’ve been very, very generous to us today.”
One of the biggest hits at the event was the dunk tank where Norm Shreve was a cheerful dunkee dressed in a tuxedo. “We started out charging for balls,” he said. “But some of the children don’t have money to buy them. So we let them throw for free. I wish I had counted how many times I got dunked but I’ll tell you, it was a whole lot and the kids were so tickled when their ball connected and I dropped in the tank.”
Since Trunk or Treat runs through the dinner hour, hotdogs, chips and a beverage are available for only $2 along with cookies and punch, all donated by members of the church and the community at large.
Duckmann said last year’s event drew about 20 vehicles and 300 children.
“This year we estimate we have had that number just in the first hour and a half,” he said. “Families in Cape Coral and North Fort Myers have heard about it and come out. That’s fine with us.”