By Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Despite a veritable deluge of rain on yet another weekend day, the Walpole High School (WHS) UNICEF Club hosted their annual Trunk or Treat fundraiser on Saturday, October 21st. True to its name, the event had several parked vehicles with creatively decorated trunks from which candy was handed out, much to the delight of the children who were in attendance. For a suggested $5 donation, trick-or-treaters could get a jump on Halloween by walking (or, in some cases, driving) to each trunk to politely request some candy.
“We went a little earlier and they let us do it as a drive-through! It was great,” remarked one enthusiastic visitor on social media. In fact, the event originated as a drive-through in 2021 amid COVID concerns.
Though costumes couldn’t be seen particularly well from inside a car, most children were thrilled by the novelty of getting candy before Halloween. Last year’s event was blessed with a perfectly sunny Autumn day and very good attendance. This year, despite the wet weather, the friendly and hardworking volunteers did everything that they could to make participants have a great time, from handing out a little extra candy to playing spooktacular Halloween-themed games with them.
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was founded after World War II to help at-risk children, no matter where they happen to be from. According to their website, the organization extends its aid to over 190 territories and countries to “save children’s lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. And we never give up.” One hundred percent of the Trunk or Treat’s proceeds will benefit UNICEF.
“I think next year we’re going to try to have it indoors,” one of the volunteers said of the event. “Can’t trust this New England weather!”
As the rain fell and the children's laughter echoed, the WHS UNICEF Club's Trunk or Treat event exemplified the spirit of unity and generosity. Despite the lack of cooperation from the weather, the volunteers' unwavering commitment to spreading joy and supporting a noble cause shone through. Their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of at-risk children around the world is a beacon of hope, and with plans for an indoor event next year, their determination remains undiminished. In the end, it's not just about the candy; it's about the enduring spirit of giving and the promise of a brighter future for children everywhere
