Halloween is just around the corner, and in Simcoe County and York Region, communities are coming together for a special celebration that ensures every kid and youth, regardless of their abilities, can experience the magic of trick-or-treating.
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Children's Treatment Network (CTN), a non-profit organization committed to supporting kids and youth with disabilities and developmental needs, families can partake in free, accessible and inclusive Trick or Treat events this Halloween.
CTN serves as a beacon of hope for over 29,000 kids and youth with disabilities and developmental needs in the region. They offer various services, including intake support, service navigation, assessment, and specialized clinics. Importantly, all of their services are free to families, thanks to Ontario's Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) funding.
Established in 2005, CTN has played a pivotal role in expanding and enhancing services for kids and youth in Simcoe County and York Region. CTN tailors its services to meet the unique needs of each kid, youth, and family. A complete list of their services can be found on their website.
As Halloween approaches, CTN once again showcases its commitment to inclusivity by organizing free Trick or Treat events across the regions it serves. These events provide a safe and welcoming environment for kids and youth with disabilities and their families to enjoy Halloween festivities.
The events are held at CTN sites where kids and youth receive rehabilitation services, creating a familiar and accessible environment.
"These events [Halloween and Holiday] are so important to families because they help create positive experiences for kids and youth who may be reluctant or fearful of clinic visits," said Maureen Marcoux, Community and Family Coordinator- Collingwood at CTN. “It also provides a safe space for practicing trick-or-treating skills and offers sensory-friendly options, allowing children to have fun with their families and friends without the pressure of wearing costumes.”
Through these kinds of events, CTN aims to connect families with shared experiences while raising community awareness and support for accessibility.
With their extensive range of services and inclusive events like the free Trick or Treat events, CTN continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of families in Simcoe County and York Region.
CTN and their community partners warmly welcome kids and youth with disabilities and developmental needs to enjoy trick-or-treating in a safe, sensory-sensitive, and accessible environment.
For registration and additional event details, please visit the events page on their website.