Wheeling Salvation Army To Hold Trunk or Treat

The Wheeling Salvation Army is slated to host a family friendly Trunk or Treat from 6-7:30 p.m. Oct. 31, Halloween, at its Corps Building, 3333 Eoff St.

Lt. John Lawrence, commander of the Wheeling Salvation Army which serves Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel and Tyler Counties, said the organization decided to hold the event during the city of Wheeling's Trick or Treat session because there would already be children out seeking candy.

"It's a safe place that kids can come and trick or treat," he said.

Lawrence noted if the weather is good the event will be outdoors, but if it is raining it will be moved indoors.

Nathan Blake, spokesman for the army, said the participating cars will be decorated in a biblical theme and be family friendly. Blake noted some children do not like extra scary decorations during Halloween, making the trunk or treat a good place for them to get candy.

Younger children who sometimes tire out quickly during long trick or treat walks can attend the trunk or treat and not have to travel as far to get their treats.

The event is free and open to the public. The army is trying to get the word out to people, especially South Wheeling residents, that there is programming for youth at the Corps building. It holds youth nights there on Tuesdays that includes a meal, games and Bible lesson.

"We want to let Wheeling, and the South Wheeling neighborhood know that we're out there and want to serve them," Blake said.

Lawrence said the usual youth night is held at 5:45 p.m. Tuesdays and includes a meal and a character building lesson, similar to Boy and Girl Scouts programs.

"All our classes have teachers and helpers who have been through background screenings and training," he said.

Lawrence is anticipating a good turnout for the trunk or treat.

"We're looking forward to seeing as many kids as we can," he said.