Published October 27. 2026 12:42PM
Aly Haskins was born on Halloween. The holiday was always special to her, and she wanted to share that feeling with others. While scrolling through Facebook, she read about a costume giveaway in Texas and thought it would be a great idea to bring to her community. As a former teacher, she had the organizational skills and contacts to make it happen.
The Bethlehem YMCA provided space, and Haskins created a Facebook group called The Costume Project. Her family and friends helped spread the word. Flyers and costume donation boxes were placed in local businesses, and community school coordinators in BASD schools were contacted.
A total of 621 costumes and 541 accessories were collected, along with books.
On Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon, the YMCA was filled with parents and children looking for costumes. By 10:20 a.m., the line to enter was 40 people deep. Volunteers provided activities for the children, and there was also a basket raffle. The Bethlehem Police Department and the Cops n Kids Literacy Program each had a table. Every child left with a costume and a book.
The Costume Project continues at events throughout the area. After Halloween, you can visit the Bethlehem YMCA lobby to donate costumes for next year’s giveaway.
Mark Blasini and daughter Catalina. Catalina came wearing a costume, hoping to find fun activities, but it would not be surprising if she left with a new costume too.
Brothers Roman and Carto added their flair to a keepsake sign for The Costume Project ‘s first costume giveaway.
Ava and Sasha Sager. Ava found a Vampirina costume.
Officer Ramsden of the BPD had a table of gifts for kids from the police department.
Shareff plays in the sensory area.
PRESS PHOTO BY LANI GOINSVolunteers Maddie and Ismeal worked the Temporary Tattoo station.
