A Spooktacular Night for a Worthy Cause

Halloween fun and community generosity will come together Thursday, October 29, as Colonial Youth and Family Services joins local officials and community organizations for a Halloween Festival benefiting families throughout the Mastic-Shirley area.

The celebration runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association, 31 Neighborhood Road, Mastic Beach, featuring a festive atmosphere where youngsters can enjoy Halloween activities in a safe, indoor setting.

“This event gives children a safe, indoor place to enjoy Halloween, have fun with their friends and celebrate the holiday without parents having to worry about traffic or the weather,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano. “It’s also an opportunity to bring our community together to support families who need a helping hand, particularly during the holiday season.”

Proceeds will benefit Colonial Youth’s community outreach efforts, including its annual Thanksgiving and Christmas food and toy drive, which has become a holiday lifeline for struggling families.

According to Fred Towle, Colonial Youth’s longtime Food and Toy Drive Coordinator, donations have already exceeded the amount needed to assist the 175 families served last year. This year, the organization has set an ambitious goal of reaching 250 families.

The festival is sponsored by Colonial Youth and Family Services, DeStefano, Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella, Brookhaven Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig and the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association.

Organizers are encouraging participants to bring nonperishable food donations to support the holiday assistance programs.

For more than five decades, Colonial Youth has provided vital services to local families, including preschool, day care, teen programs and summer camp.

With the holiday season approaching, organizers hope the Halloween celebration will inspire additional generosity, ensuring more families can enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas without worrying about putting food on their tables.

To support Colonial Youth’s holiday outreach programs, call 631-281-4461.