Boo Fest, presented by Lakeview Hospital and ACCESS, will be held on the grounds of the hospital on Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The all-abilities Halloween event features trick or treating, games, arts and crafts, and a costume contest. “This inclusive event gives every child, even those with disabilities or sensory issues, an opportunity to enjoy Halloween,” said Kim Melvin, ACCESS board member. “We know every parent also wants a chance to see their child experience the events in life that many take for granted.”
Boo Fest benefits children with disabilities and their families but is open to children of all abilities. The gates open for early admission for special needs families at 9 a.m. Admission to Boo Fest is only $2 per person, and all proceeds benefit ACCESS, the local organization that helps support children with disabilities and their families to improve their quality of life.
The wheelchair-accessible walking path around the duck ponds and green space adjacent to Lakeview Hospital allows children of all abilities to collect treats at each house. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costume and take part in the annual Boo Fest costume contest, competing for the titles of “Cutest,” “Scariest,” “Most Original,” or “Best Group.”
All proceeds raised from Boo Fest provide support to families who have a child with a disability in four key areas—financial grants, caregiver education, an equipment exchange program, and peer support. Since its inception in 2010, ACCESS has provided over $100,000 in grants to local families in need of van modifications, custom and power wheelchairs, adaptive bicycles, special needs car seats, augmentative communication devices, home modifications, and other important durable medical equipment. For more information about ACCESS or for Boo Fest sponsorships, visit https://accesslouisiana.org/boofest-sponsorship/