EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Spirit Halloween’s charitable foundation, Spirit of Children, recently completed its annual Spirit of Children Week, successfully bringing Halloween celebrations to pediatric patients and their families at 162 hospitals across North America.
The events, which took place from Oct. 13-17, 2025, aimed to provide a moment of joy and normalcy for children facing serious health challenges and extended hospital stays. Hospital staff and volunteers organized parties, trick-or-treating, and other festivities, transforming the hospital environments.
Spirit of Children also reported significant fundraising success during the Halloween season, which supports Child Life departments year-round. The program raised over $18 million this season, contributing to the more than $145 million generated since fundraising began in 2007.
Steven Silverstein, CEO of Spirit Halloween and Founder of Spirit of Children, noted the importance of the program’s local impact.
“It was a privilege to help spark moments of happiness and normalcy for kids facing challenging circumstances,” Silverstein said. “Every dollar raised stays in the communities where it was donated, strengthening our bond with hospital partners and reaffirming our commitment to making a meaningful difference.”
The funds will continue to provide critical support by increasing Child Life staff, establishing sensory rooms, and funding distraction equipment. The foundation’s efforts also support over 100 specialized therapy programs, including art, music, and pet therapy.
Additionally, Spirit Halloween’s vendor partners ensured the patients could participate fully by donating more than 500,000 costumes to the partner hospitals.