Halloween is an exciting time to don a cape, vampire teeth, or a witch hat, and “haunt” the streets for candy. For many kids, it’s another opportunity to go Halloween costume shopping and buy a brand new costume. For less fortunate children, however, Halloween is another year of wearing the same costume, or not having a costume at all. Luckily, a nonprofit organization in Baton Rouge will be leading a costume and candy drive to help families in need.

10/31 Consortium, a Baton Rouge-based nonprofit, is excited to announce its annual Costume and Candy Drive, with more than 30 drop-off locations across the Greater Baton Rouge area. The drive will run until October 18, collecting new and gently used Halloween costumes and store-bought, individually wrapped candy. Collected costumes will be distributed free of charge to children in need during two Costume Giveaway Days. The first giveaway will occur on October 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the WAG Center in Donaldsonville (1201 Maginnis Street), and the second on October 20 at 3 p.m. at the Goodwood Library in Baton Rouge. Families are encouraged to arrive early, as the need is great, and supplies will be limited. 

Thanks to a recent donation of $20,000 from an anonymous donor, 10/31 Consortium’s charitable programs have experienced rapid growth and expansion. Additionally, the 10/31 Consortium partnered with the Ultimate Party Store of Denham Springs to obtain over 350 costumes for the charity at a significant discount. This support, along with the dedication of other donors and volunteers, has helped expand the reach of the organization’s mission to give children a safe and happy Halloween.

Give a costume, get a costume, or sponsor a child, at freecostumes.com.