Volunteers Fall Just Short of World Record In Orange County

ORANGE COUNTY, CA -- Hundreds of supporters of a local nonprofit fell just short of their aim to break an unusual world record Sunday at the Huntington Beach Pier.

The group hoped to gather at least 889 people dressed in vegetable or fruit costumes, to break the record of 888 people in such garb set in China.

A Miracles for Kids supporter with a startup event planning business contacted the nonprofit about the way to raise money and awareness for the Tustin-based organization, which serves ailing and needy children.

``She was inspired by an article she read about a world's record attempt so she wanted to put something of her own together,'' Miracles for Kids spokeswoman Rachel Peterson explained.

Unfortunately, the group came up a little short of their goal, finishing with 822 people in costume. But in addition to raising money and awareness of the nonprofit, the event was a fun day at the beach for the children it serves, Peterson said.

``They are living with a life-threatening illness and some are at or below the poverty line so a fun day at the beach isn't a regular thing for them,'' she said. ``It's a really special event for them and their whole family.''

At the beginning of the week about 500 people had signed up for the event, Peterson said.

Costumes could be obtained when registering, and some organizers hand-made costumes, Peterson said.

Miracles for Kids serves about 250 families throughout the state. Needy families apply for help and a case worker is assigned to help them with a variety of needs from financial assistance, caregiving and a mental health program.

City News Service contributed to this report.