Halloween costume prices are rising. Here’s how one man uses thrifting to help families in need

Creating Halloween Magic: One Man’s Mission to Provide Costumes to Those in Need

Christophe Waggoner can be found sifting through racks of clothing at thrift stores in central Texas several times a week. Unlike other shoppers, he is on a mission to find items that can be transformed into Halloween costumes.

“I look for anything shiny, furry, or sparkly that catches my eye,” says Waggoner. His goal is to repurpose thrifted treasures into creative costumes and donate them to those who may not have the means to purchase their own.

Working from his home in Austin, Waggoner washes, glues, and sews together the costumes he finds, giving them new life and purpose. He hosts events in the fall where children can choose their Halloween costumes for free, a tradition he has been carrying out for nine years.

This year has seen a surge in demand for Waggoner’s costumes, as the average spending on a Halloween costume has increased by 11% from the previous year, reaching $37.62 per costume. Factors such as tariffs on Chinese imports have contributed to the rise in prices, making it difficult for families on a budget to afford costumes.

Waggoner’s mission not only provides children and parents with the opportunity to celebrate Halloween regardless of their financial situation but also creates lasting memories for families in need. Despite the financial strain on his own resources – spending over $5,000 annually on storage for the costumes – Waggoner believes that the impact he makes is invaluable.

“The ultimate goal is to uplift and empower individuals through these events,” Waggoner explains. “By lending a helping hand, we can inspire others to do the same.”

Many families who benefit from Waggoner’s generosity often pay it forward by returning or donating their old costumes to support his cause. To those who may underestimate the significance of a Halloween costume, Waggoner emphasizes that every child deserves the chance to experience the joy and magic of being a kid.