A few early birds from the large group of kids gather at the UNICEF centre along Jennifer Drive, Snug Harbor before going trick-or-treating. (Photo by Mwangi Ngamate)

By Mwangi Ngamate
Mwangi@caymannetnews.com

Over 450 children disguised as ghosts, goblins, superheroes and princesses went door to door on Saturday, 31 October collect more than candy.

With their signature orange United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) boxes around their necks, they collected money that will aid in vaccines, clean water and improved nutrition for less fortunate children around the world, especially in the developing countries.

According to one event organiser, Tania Knapik, the entire Roller Hockey League participated, and over than 450 boxes were distributed.

Before the onset of the visits by the children, the organisers carried out sensitization tours where they forewarned parents and residents of high traffic areas that children would be visiting for trick or treat.

Last year the campaign raised CI $1000 and it was a mere fraction of the participation this year.

Two schools also participated in this year’s holiday, namely St Ignatius and Cayman International School.

This Halloween marked the 59th anniversary of Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF — in which children were encouraged to make Halloween count by helping other children. 100 per cent of the funds raised will go directly to UNICEF International to support their programs and initiatives.

Over $180 million dollars to date have been raised; UNICEF brings lifesaving relief to millions of children across the globe. This tradition also offers children the chance to gain a meaningful experience during Halloween festivities, while still having fun. By carrying the orange UNICEF collection box, children raise money to help other children in need, and in the process, learn the important role they can play in helping each other.

UNICEF Cayman Kids is in its third year of operation and has plans to expand to all of the local schools throughout Grand Cayman next year.

“As a child, I remember collecting money on Halloween for UNICEF and I’m excited and proud to introduce this tradition to my children and bring it to Grand Cayman,” said Scott Flegel, Director of UNICEF Cayman Kids.

“It is my hope that we can engage children to be global citizens and teach them at a young age the importance of helping others that are less fortunate.”

For more than 60 years, UNICEF has been the world’s leading international children’s organisation, working in 150 countries to address the ongoing issues that affect why kids are dying. UNICEF provides lifesaving nutrition, clean water, education, protection and emergency response saving more young lives than any other humanitarian organization in the world.

While millions of children die every year of preventable causes like dehydration, upper respiratory infections and measles, UNICEF, with the support of partnering organisations and donors alike, has the global experience, resources and reach to give children the best hope of survival.