Every year families spend anywhere from $30 to a few hundred dollars on Halloween costumes that either get lost in closets and soon forgotten.
To prevent that, Kristy Daugherty, a Knightsen resident, is collecting costumes to give away to children next year.
This mother of one knows that Halloween is a time when not everyone can afford to buy costumes for their children. Each year observers more than a handful of trick-or-treaters without costumes and wants to correct that.
“I am sure we have all seen the poor little guy in his jammies and a pillow case with the saddest look,” she says.
Daugherty wants to prevent this from happening. She grew up with a family on a tight budget and recalls what her own family went through.
“My step-father started raising me and my older sister when he was only 19,” she says. “I look back now and don’t know how he took us on at such a young age.” She and her sister were 2 to 3 years old at the time. “We never went without and even if we couldn’t afford a costume my mother would make them for us,” she adds.
She feels kids already have it hard enough, without having to worry about feeling embarrassed because they don’t have costume.
“I know what it’s like to stick out because I was in special ED growing up and never liked to feel different,” she says. “I know how these little ones feel.”
Daugherty feels the prices of costumes are completely outrageous and are only used once, especially with kids that grow like weeds. The costumes sit in the back of the closet and never get used again.
She is encouraging people to donate their costumes after Halloween. People can donate by texting or calling Daugherty at (925)206-1955 . Costumes can also be dropped off at 3 Star Tattoo at 419 W 2nd street in Antioch.
“I am just and average mom who wants to make any difference anyway I can for a family who may have to do without,” she says.
Knightsen made her son LJ’s costume last year, which was a hot air balloon. This year LJ will be dressing up as a Ninja this year. She of course, will be donating his costume.
By Amy Schrader
Arts & Entertainment Editor
Email: [email protected]
