Written by Phyllis Orlicek, of Grand Avenue UMC
Each year, dinosaurs, pirates, monsters, and Disney characters descend on Grand Avenue United Methodist Church during its annual Halloween Trunk or Treat. The Trunk or Treat project, first called Picks and Treats, began seven years ago in the midst of COVID restrictions. The church, desiring a way to reach community children through literacy, began collecting books for both children and adults for months ahead of Halloween; then on Halloween night in 2020, church members displayed hundreds of books for all ages in the church parking lot as car trunks were decorated and opened for distribution of candy and snacks. In addition, a picture prop of a red barn, hay bales, pumpkins, and mums served as an area for children in costumes and their families to have their picture taken. Church members in protective masks handed out treat bags containing coloring books, crayons, etc. Even with social distancing requirements, approximately 100 people were served.
During the years 2021-2025, additional elements such as popcorn and bottled water were added, along with registration for giveaways for kids’ snack boxes and gift cards, along with activity books, stickers, etc. Each year, Grand Avenue’s Trunk or Treat has grown in both popularity and numbers. Food items have ranged from healthier snacks such as Cuties, Cheez-Its, fruit snacks, etc., to suckers and candy bars.
This year’s 2026 Grand Avenue Trunk or Treat grew to 700+ attendees. Considering that Stuttgart’s population is 7,381, the equivalent of 10% of Stuttgart’s population attended the event. The crowd was so large this past Halloween that church members were afraid of running out of candy and other items. However, much like Christ and the loaves and fishes, miraculously, there was just enough candy, as well as books, to cater to the large crowd. Church members spoke highly of the manners and appreciation both children and parents displayed.
Grand Avenue UMC – Stuttgart is looking ahead to next year’s Trunk or Treat and is considering serving hot dogs, as well as bringing back photo prop opportunities, in addition to this past year’s giveaways.
The Stuttgart church is proud of its service to the children and parents of the community. In addition to this project, Grand Avenue also holds a Back-to-School Bash, where members give away school supplies and healthy snacks. In addition, Grand Avenue United Methodist Church – Stuttgart also supplies food for Park Avenue Elementary’s Back Pack Program, provides clothing items on its Fence of Love, and volunteers to aid community members with laundry costs at the local laundromat.