Squamish’s Hilltop House a Halloween hit with the kids

For the fourth year in a row, Hilltop House in Squamish hosted a Halloween event for residents and local kids last Friday afternoon. The residential care facility invited pupils from Brackendale Elementary as well as the children of friends, families and staff to join in the Halloween hijinks.

About 100 kids – all decked out in costumes – came trick or treating, says Cindy den Dekker, Activities Coordinator at  Hilltop House.

One of those kids was five-year-old Malcolm (a.k.a. Buzz Lightyear), who came with his mum Veronica McPhee.

“What an amazing experience,” says Veronica, who dressed as a fairy. “It created such a non-threatening way for him to meet elders in his community. We had an opportunity to chat and even sing for almost all the residents who participated. We arrived right at 3 p.m. and seemed to be the only ones there until we had to leave about 45 minutes later. We both got so much more out of the experience than just candy.”

Although Veronica and her son don’t know anyone personally at Hilltop House, it has inspired them to visit more often.

“Thank you so much to whoever thought of the idea and all the staff and volunteers who organized and co-ordinated it. And, of course, many thanks to the residents who participated. It was a pleasure meeting so many of you.”

“Everyone had a great time,” says Cindy. “We’ll definitely be doing it again next year.”

The candy was generously donated by area businesses, families, residents and staff.