This Halloween, a family in Hamilton will be participating in a unique initiative called Treat Accessibly to provide a more inclusive experience for trick-or-treaters. Mercedes Palermo, a resident of Hamilton’s Central Mountain area, is a strong supporter of this movement, which aims to make Halloween more accessible for individuals with disabilities or who are neurodivergent.

Palermo’s involvement in Treat Accessibly is personal as her six-year-old daughter Camila is autistic and faces challenges with Halloween festivities due to sensory issues. To address these challenges, Treat Accessibly encourages giving out treats at ground level, such as from a driveway or car trunk, to ensure accessibility for all. The initiative also suggests offering non-edible treats for those who cannot have candy and avoiding sensory triggers like bright lights and loud sounds.

Palermo, who is a registered nurse, also runs a social media page called Autism Out Loud where she shares insights on raising a neurodivergent child. She emphasizes the importance of letting go of expectations for trick-or-treaters and allowing everyone to enjoy the Halloween experience.

To spread awareness about their accessible trick-or-treating setup, the Palermo family displayed a Treat Accessibly sign on their lawn. This initiative originated in Oakville, Ontario, in 2017 when founder Rich Padulo and his daughter Siena wanted to make their home accessible for a child in a wheelchair to enjoy Halloween.

Treat Accessibly has gained significant traction, with plans to distribute 300,000 signs by the end of this Halloween. The organization has received recognition in the House of Commons for promoting inclusivity. By partnering with businesses like Pet Valu and Kinder, Treat Accessibly continues to expand its reach and impact.

In recent years, Treat Accessibly has organized accessible trick-or-treating events in multiple cities, including Hamilton, Toronto, and Surrey. These events have garnered community support and participation, providing a joyful and inclusive Halloween experience for children of all abilities.

The Palermo family commends the positive impact of Treat Accessibly in their neighborhood, where more residents are adopting the accessibility tips. Palermo believes that creating a judgment-free and pressure-free environment for children during holidays like Halloween is invaluable for fostering a sense of inclusivity and enjoyment.

Overall, Treat Accessibly is making significant strides in promoting accessible and inclusive Halloween celebrations, ensuring that everyone can participate in the fun and festivities of the season.