Residents across North Yorkshire are being asked to donate children’s Halloween costumes and accessories they no longer need. The move is designed to cut waste while giving families the chance to pick up a free outfit for trick-or-treating.
Northallerton, Scarborough, Selby, and Ripon libraries are now collecting donations. Items can be dropped off until 12 October, before they are sorted and shared out. From 20 to 31 October, the libraries will open swap shops where families can choose a costume at no cost.
Cllr Richard Foster, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing the environment, said: “At Halloween, many households buy costumes for their children who soon grow out of them or want a new look the following year. The initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to encourage sustainable living and reduce single-use waste during the spooky season. By giving pre-loved costumes a second life, we hope to inspire families to embrace an eco-friendlier Halloween while also saving money and building community spirit.”
Parents in the area have already shown support. Hannah Gilbert, from Northallerton, commented: “It is a fantastic idea and a great way to declutter, save money on buying more costumes, and helps to protect the environment.”
Families interested in taking part can visit one of the participating libraries or email North Yorkshire Council’s waste prevention and recycling team at waste.campaigns@northyorks.gov.uk for more details.
