Wilmington Teen Creates Step Up Event So Everybody Can Have Halloween

WILMINGTON, MA — Thanks to a 14-year-old girl from Wilmington, some local children may get a chance to celebrate Halloween this year when they otherwise might have missed out.

Tessa Labrecque has organized the first-ever Step Up Trick or Treat Night, which will take place from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 21 at the Friendship Lodge, located at 32 Church St.

The event will feature sensory toys and treats, including sugar-free options. Costumes are welcome, but not required.

According to Jessica Labrecque, Tessa's mom, the idea for a "Halloween for all" event came about after Tessa read an article about a 9-year-old boy who is autistic and non-verbal. Last Halloween, the boy was turned away from getting candy because he didn't say "trick or treat."

Jessica Labrecque said her daughter also learned that other kids miss out on the Halloween experience for various reasons, like if they are in wheelchairs and can't go door-to-door, struggle with anxiety or have food allergies.

"(Tessa) believes all kids deserve to experience the joy of getting treats in a safe and welcoming environment," Jessica Labrecque told Patch.

Jessica Labrecque said that in addition to sensory toys, the candy at the event will be spread out on tables, so children can walk up and collect the candy while accompanied by their families.

Additionally, Jessica Labrecque said that anybody unable to attend the event can contact her daughter, and Tessa will make a sensory treat bag for them to pick up "so their kids have something to look forward to on Halloween just like everyone else."

Though this is the first Step Up event that Tessa Labrecque has organized, Jessica Labrecque said her daughter hopes to host a similar "Christmas craft party" around the holidays.

"This event is really important to my daughter and me to spread kindness to all kids," Jessica Labrecque said. "Tessa has put a tremendous amount of effort into making this event possible. Seeing a kid helping other kids is a blessing."

For more information contact the Labrecques at 978-918-0809.