When City Rescue Mission announced it was missing 80 Halloween costumes for the 120 children staying at the shelter, the Oklahoma City community answered the call. A group of volunteers, together with Oklahoma City Thunder forward Isaiah Hartenstein and his foundation, stepped in to close the gap.

Local generosity fills the need

City Rescue Mission’s staff had already prepared a festive carnival with candy booths, games and a stage for the children. The shortage threatened to leave many kids without a costume, but the outpouring of support from neighbors, churches, and local businesses quickly supplied the needed outfits.

“It’s so much fun seeing all the kids in their costumes and just having the best time,” said Erin Goodin, CEO and president of City Rescue Mission. “It brings joy to our hearts that they get to experience something so joyful while they’re here.”

Isaiah Hartenstein’s foundation leads the effort

Isaiah Hartenstein, a native of Oklahoma City and member of the Thunder, announced that his foundation would match community donations and purchase the remaining costumes. The foundation’s contribution, combined with individual donations, ensured that every child—whether dressed as a superhero, princess, or other favorite character—received a costume for the evening.

Hartenstein said, “Giving back to the city that raised me is a privilege. Seeing these kids smile in their costumes reminds us all why we give.”

Carnival brings joy and hope

The carnival, held on Halloween night, featured a variety of activities. Children ran through booths for candy, played games, and posed for photos in their new attire. The atmosphere was lively, with laughter echoing through the shelter’s halls.

Volunteers also organized a photo booth where families could capture memories of the night. The event highlighted the power of community collaboration, showing how local leaders, athletes, and everyday citizens can come together to support vulnerable families.

Continuing the tradition of care

City Rescue Mission has a long history of serving Oklahoma City’s most vulnerable populations. This year’s Halloween celebration adds to a series of programs that provide meals, shelter, and counseling to those in need. The organization encourages ongoing community involvement throughout the year, inviting residents to volunteer, donate, or partner on future initiatives.

For those interested in supporting City Rescue Mission, contributions can be made online or in person at the shelter’s main office. The organization also welcomes volunteers to help with upcoming events, including holiday meals and back‑to‑school drives.

By uniting around a simple need—costumes for a Halloween carnival—the Oklahoma City community demonstrated the compassion and generosity that strengthen families and neighborhoods across the city.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.