Hundreds of Halloween costumes will be available in downtown Sarnia during the third annual Ella-ween event, held in support of the Sarnia Organ Donor Awareness (SODA) group.
Chair Sue Morrison Weir said donations have been collected throughout the year and they have plenty of costume options, ranging in size from infant to adult.
"We've had a lot of wonderful donations from the community and the day-of event is also really beautiful," she said. "It's wonderful to see people coming out and having a great time and having a wonderful experience while also able to shop at very reasonable prices. Everything that we offer is under $10."
Morrison Weir said proceeds are primarily used for donor family grief packages and supporting local patients. However, she said the event is more than just a fundraiser, it's a community event that raises awareness about SODA's mission and honours the life of a child.
Ella Crossett was two years old when she sadly passed away in 2022. Her organs were donated to two boys.
Her mother, Kristin Luckins, launched the event a year later as a tribute to Ella, who loved Halloween.
Costume donations, Halloween decor, and new makeup will be sold on Sunday, October 19, from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre on College Avenue.
"We have face painting, we have a dance company that's going to be doing some demonstrations, we have all kinds of vendors," Morrison Weir said. "We'll have Sarnia Scare Grams there with their costumes so if there are horror fans out there, some of your favourite characters may be wandering around."
There will also be a 50/50 draw and door prizes.
SODA's mission is to raise awareness about the need for organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Morrison Weir said a booth will be set up at Sunday's event to educate people about the non-profit organization.
"Sarnia-Lambton has a wonderful registration rate, but there are still a lot of people who are not registered so it's important that we continue with that mission," she said.
Admission to Ella-ween is free.
