Tribal Social Services maintains fun Halloween spirit amid pandemic

Emma Hughes
Gila River Indian News

Tribal Social Services got creative during Halloween with fun and safe activities for youth. 

“We focused on having an internal event as the kids were unable to go out,” said Trina Hart, Tribal Social Services Director. 

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and the Gila River Indian Community’s stay-at-home order still in effect this Halloween season, staff worked to ensure the youth had some fun.

Alex Villalobos, Training Coordinator and Brooke Hanna, Recreation Coordinator, formed a small committee and planned three days of Halloween festivities for the staff and youth. Beginning on Thursday, Oct. 29, the Residential Program for Youth had trick-or-treating for those residing at the facility. 

Tribal Social Services staff participated in a Halloween door decorating contest with group and individual winners. Prizes included gift cards and pizza and breakfast parties. The youth visited the decorated staff doors for treats and had the option to walk through a haunted house put together by the staff.

Friday, Oct. 30 was a night of Halloween movies and on Saturday, Oct. 31, Halloween night, the staff and youth enjoyed storytelling and s’mores. “The kids were excited by each event, especially since they were not able to leave,” said Hart.