Halloween will soon be upon us, and Open Arms Community Church and Grace Lutheran Church are partnering up for their 11th annual Trunk R Treat event to be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at Grace Lutheran Church on Mechanic Street in Bradford.

“The event started 11 years ago with just a few hundred people, ” said the Rev. Mike McAvoy, of Open Arms, “and it has grown to the point that the last several years we’ve served near or over 3,000 attendees during trick or treat hours. This year we are planning bigger and better than ever with games, face painting, candy, snacks, drinks and hotdogs.”

In preparation for the event, the churches are inviting the community to get involved. Families and organizations can contribute in a number of ways; by donating candy, prepackaged baked goods, prizes, toys, bottled water, and by bringing a decorated trunk filled with candy to give away to the kids.

“We would love to see people from the community as well as other organizations like local law enforcement, first responders, local businesses, and so on come and participate in the event, by decorating a trunk, helping run games, serving snacks, etc.,” said McAvoy.

Anyone wishing to donate candy, prepackaged baked goods or bottled water may drop them off at either church on Sunday mornings or on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Anyone with questions can contact Selene Machuga at Grace Lutheran Church.