Bolton neighbours unite for accessible trick-or-treating this Halloween

October 26, 2023 · 0 Comments

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bolton residents are ensuring the fun and magic of Halloween can be enjoyed by all.

Francesca Valente and John Groe are neighbours that live on Sir Lancelot Court in Bolton. For the third time, they’ve arranged an amazing night of accessible trick-or-treating on October 31.

At 6 p.m. their street will be closed to traffic by Caledon OPP and the evening will begin. All Sir Lancelot Court residents will be handing out candy at the bottom of their driveways, ensuring those with disabilities can participate in the fun.

Treat Accessibly was founded in 2017 by the Padulo family. They realized their home had stairs, and it meant a neighbour in a wheelchair couldn’t come up and trick-or-treat. They decided to move their treat station to the end of their driveway, and the idea for the movement was born. Now, over 100,000 homes across Canada participate in Treat Accessibly each year.

Valente said anyone is welcome to come trick-or-treat on Sir Lancelot Court this year.

“It ends up being a really good vibe on the street,” she said. “It’s a fun night and a safe night for the kids.”

Groe has a daughter with a disability and owns two companies that support individuals with disabilities. He’s also served on the Town of Caledon’s accessibility advisory committee. He’s very passionate about supporting those with disabilities and it’s why he’s very excited to be part of the group organizing an accessible trick-or-treating event in Bolton.

Coffee Time has donated coffee and hot chocolate for the event, and local restaurant Blue Smoke has donated gift cards to be used as prizes. There will be prizes for the best costume and best-decorated house on Sir Lancelot Court. Other companies involved in supporting the event include Remax (where Valente is a realtor), Accessible Daily Living, Drivelab, Momentous, Plan B Media, and Aqua Mer Spa.

Groe said Bolton is a pretty great place for community events, adding it’s amazing when the community can connect. The accessible trick-or-treating event is free for all who attend, something Groe said is important during tough economic times.

Groe said the event will be a great mix of fun and education for kids.