It was in 2008 when I blogged about the Origins of Halloween. Interestingly, I recently found out who spearheaded the Trick or Treat for UNICEF and it was in 1950 when a minister in Pennsylvania by the name of Reverend Clyde Allison and his wife, Emma thought of making a difference out of the regular trick or treat tradition.
The Trick or Treat for UNICEF since then was supported by school groups, police, fire departments, service organizations, even celebrities and media. By 1960’s, it has spread beyond the United States and other countries have joined in this effort. President John F. Kennedy quoted, “UNICEF has caught the imagination of our people, especially our nation’s children whose Halloween collections have become a symbol of concern and expression of tangible aid.” In 1967, President Lyndon Johnson signed a proclamation designating Halloween as National UNICEF Day. As Christians, I’d have to say, that’s more like it. Instead of glorifying ghosts and having kids go around donned in scary witches and evil things, I’d rather have this kind of celebration where kids can actually be “superheroes” in their own right, as they make a difference by donating to UNICEF for the benefit of the disadvantaged kids in the world.
Jed and I attended the Trick or Treat for UNICEF launch and above is his attempt to draw Iron Man, his favorite Avenger cartoon character. He loves the color red for as long as he has loved the movie Cars and everything Lightning McQueen. He also favors Iron Man and Flash. All of which having the dominating color – red. 🙂
Photos by Walter Bollozos
Thank you, Kuya Walter! We attend the same church. It was a pleasant surprise when we saw him covering the event for Philippine Star. 🙂
Parents can encourage their children to join Trick or Treat for UNICEF by getting their free TOT4UNICEF kits at the UNICEF booths at The Mega Atrium in SM Megamall and at The Podium from October 6 to 27, 2012. Schools can be part of this as well. Visit www.unicef.ph or call 758-1000 for more details. 🙂
