LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Zoneton Fire Protection District is gearing up for Halloween by stuffing treat bags with candy. 

Deputy Chief Tracey Key says this is the kickoff to their annual Halloween event, which they have been doing for the community for over 20 years, but COVID forced them to do things differently. So now the fire department brings Halloween to the kids they serve.

“It used to be a trunk or treat where we had ten booths in this room right here to now, a three-day process where we get through the entire fire district that we serve,” said Key.

Melissa Allen believes this event makes Halloween for families easier and safer.

“The community is safe and they don’t have to worry about going out into, you know, the neighborhood and worrying about what candy they’re going to get from other people. I think it means a lot to them,” said Allen.

“A lot of our kids are on free and reduced lunches. Parents are working multiple jobs, so Halloween, for some kids, they don’t get the traditional Halloween. So for us to be able to drive around a couple nights and ensure everybody gets a bag of candy, that’s pretty big,” added Key.

Forty 27-gallon tubs are filled with candy that will be distributed. Both Key and Allen say it’s one way to give back to their community.

“The little bit of just filling a candy bag that goes a long way. I just came in this bag to these kids to donate candy, to give to the kids that every little bit helps,” said Allen.

“A lot of times they only see us on their worst day. And this is like we’re normal people. We do this because we love the community that we live in,” said Key.

Key said they are expecting to hand out 2,800 bags of candy through the north end of Bullitt County. Zoneton Fire Protection District will pass out the bags of candy on Oct. 22, 23 and 24.

You can find their route and schedule online.