REXBURG—Families can trade cold weather trick-or-treating for candy, costumes and hot cocoa at Madisonhealth’s 11th Annual Trick-or-Treat Off the Street event.
Jessica Goudy, who works in Madisonhealth’s communications department and helps organize the event, said the tradition began with staff at Seasons Medical. They wanted to give young families a place to celebrate Halloween away from the cold.
Over the years, the event has become an opportunity for children to feel more comfortable in a medical setting. Meeting nurses and providers during a celebration can help make future appointments feel less intimidating.
“We see it as an opportunity,” Goudy said. “There’s sometimes a lot of angst and a lot of anxiety for kiddos to go into the doctor as well, and so this is kind of a fun, non-threatening way for kids to come in, for them to meet the providers and the nurses, for them to see equipment, for them to get a little bit of candy, and maybe face those fears before it comes time for some of those actual appointments.”
This year, families will enter Rexburg Medical through a large inflatable archway before making their way through themed areas, including a ghost alley and pumpkin patch. Staff members will hand out candy and prizes along the route. Stroller access will be available, and families should bring their own candy bags.
Hospital departments are joining the celebration, with visitors helping choose the winners of employee costume and pumpkin carving contests. Families will vote for their favorite tickets.
Another addition this year is gourmet hot cocoa from Sasquatch Cocoa, with whipped cream and spooky sprinkles available.
For Goudy, the event has a personal connection. Before joining Madisonhealth, she attended with her daughter. She remembers visiting the Women’s Health Center, where her nurses and doctors stopped to talk and admire their costumes.
“And I think that that’s what healthcare is, it’s just how people make us feel,” Goudy said.
Goudy credited employees across the organization for coordinating the event and creating a welcoming experience. She also encouraged residents to continue supporting community celebrations.
“So, keep showing up, and we will keep hosting,” Goudy said.
Madisonhealth invites local children and families to its 11th Annual Trick-or-Treat Off the Street event on Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Rexburg Medical, 393 E. 2nd North in Rexburg.