Halloween has a very unique connection to the Presbyterian Church (USA). No, it has nothing to do with witches, ghoulish characters, or candy. It has to do with UNICEF!
In 1950, just after World War II the Reverend Clyde Allison, pastor of the Bridesburg Presbyterian Church, was searching for a way to make Halloween something different and inspired a group of children into action. These children dressed in the costumes of other countries carried milk cartons covered with orange construction paper instead of candy bags. And instead of candy corn or chocolate bars, they asked for money. But the money was not for them; it was to help feed hungry children suffering from the devastation left by the war. They collected $17 that year and sent it to UNICEF to help supply powdered milk.
The U.S. Fund for UNICEF heard the story and in 1953 initiated the campaign "trick-o-treat for UNICEF" inspiring others around the country to participate. Since then the program has raised $140 million to assist children most in need. What an impact this idea from a group of Presbyterian kids has made.
