Connecticut Children's delivers Halloween treats to 100 patient rooms

Connecticut Children’s Medical Center staff members visited approximately 100 patient rooms on Friday to hand out Halloween treats and toys.

The hospital organized the annual reverse trick-or-treating event to allow children who are too ill or restricted to leave their rooms to participate in the holiday. Around 70 staff members took part in the visits. The team arrived in costumes, including characters like Buzz Lightyear and Minions, and brought food such as hot dogs to the patients.

For many families, the event provides a way for their children to experience Halloween without the physical demands of going door to door. Marlynn Tosses, a parent at the hospital, noted that her child uses a wheelchair. She said, “He’s in a wheelchair, and it’s amazing how they involve everyone in the activities.”

Hospital officials stated the program aims to restore a sense of agency for young patients. Katie Robbins of Connecticut Children’s explained that hospitalization often removes simple options from a child's daily routine. “There’s so much choice lost for kids when they’re in the hospital. Our goal is to give them that choice back,” Robbins said. She added that the initiative allows children to remain kids even while receiving medical care.

The event concluded with patients receiving treats directly in their beds. The hospital will continue to monitor patient participation for the remainder of the week. The next scheduled community health outreach is planned for early November.