The Sarnia Organ Donor Awareness (SODA) group is still collecting donations in preparation for the fourth annual Ella-ween fundraiser in Sarnia.
Costumes and Halloween decor will be sold at a redistribution event on Sunday, October 18, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre, located at 180 College Ave. N.
"We will have some door prizes when you come in. The gymnasium is always fun and decorated. We will have vendors there as well. We have activities for the kids. It's a fun day for everyone," said SODA Chair Sue Morrison-Weir. "We also have people walking around in scary costumes."
Ella-Ween launched a few years ago in memory of two-year-old Ella Crossett, who died suddenly in the summer of 2022. The donation of Ella's organs saved the lives of two young boys.
Morrison-Weir said after connecting with Ella's mother, Kristin Luckins, the event grew into an annual initiative, raising money for donor family packages and support for local transplant patients.
"We thought this was a wonderful idea and a beautiful way to honour Ella," said Morrison-Weir.
She also said the event has had an impact on the community's knowledge of SODA.
"We're reaching a different demographic this way because we don't often connect with children or families with young children," said Morrison-Weir. "So this has allowed us to connect with a different part of the community and we, as a non-profit, love being able to give back."
Morrison-Weir said donations of gently used or new Halloween costumes, new makeup, and accessories will be accepted up until the day of the event.
Donations can be dropped off with SODA at 180 N. College Ave., Sarnia Scare Grams at 1112 Indian Rd. N., Motion at 49 Finch Dr. Unit 7, The HUB Insurance at 265 Exmouth St., and The Painted Cat at 137 Christina St. N.
