Special Needs Halloween Bash a blast for children

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Timothy Boyer
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Exceptional Family Member Program and Airman and Family Readiness Center staffs joined forces to provide trick or treating, games and more Oct. 26 for Travis' special needs children during the Special Needs Halloween Bash.

"There are more than 1,100 EFMP family members at Travis and of them approximately 800 are special needs children," said Elaine Daly-Rath, EFMP coordinator. "It is important and rewarding to be able to provide our families with an outlet and fun organized events at which they can enjoy,"

The event was filled with variety, as costumed children rotated from a table full of crafts to a movie room. Light refreshments were served as well.

"We tried to make this event more than just filling bags with candy, although we knew the kids wanted that too," Daly-Rath said. "This is about community. It gives parents and their children the opportunity to connect with each other."

Parents agree that these events are more than just fun and games.

"The fact that they have these programs lets me know that the base really cares about the welfare of military children," said Tech. Sgt. Jason MacAllister, 60th Maintenance Squadron Aerospace Ground Equipment craftsman and father of an autistic child. "These events are great for my kids because it gives them a chance for social interaction with other kids who might have similar circumstances."

While this particular event was a simple costume party with some games and candy, special attention was paid to the details.

"We took into account the various needs of the children when we put the event together, so there was something here for everyone," Daly-Rath said. "The environment is set up to encourage children to socialize, engage in activities and have fun."

This program, along with all of the EFMP events, is part of a plan for Travis to take care of its military families.

"The Force Support Squadron provides activities and family support so when folks are not doing the mission they are provided opportunities to let loose and have some fun," said Maj. Elizabeth Eychner, 60th FSS commander. "We provide that opportunity to strike a balance between the mission and family."

For more information on FSS events, visit www.TravisFSS.com or "like" the Travis Force Support Squadron Facebook page.