Fall River Hosts Trunk-or-Treat for 3-Year-Old Battling Cancer

Two kind-hearted SouthCoast residents, Lexi Carvalho and Susan Ponte Abrantes, are teaming up to spread love and hope this Halloween season.

A family-friendly Trunk or Treat fundraiser at Empire Hyundai in Fall River will benefit MagicForMaverick, helping out a three-year-old boy courageously fighting a rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer.

Carvalho and Abrantes have been working tirelessly to bring the community together for the young boy. “We just want to give Maverick’s family the kind of day that reminds them they’re not alone,” they shared.

Get our free mobile app

What to Expect

Families can look forward to a full afternoon of Halloween fun on Saturday, October 25 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature trunk-or-treating, face painting, music, and plenty of activities to keep kids smiling. Admission is a $5 donation.

Dozens of raffle prizes and silent auction items will be up for grabs, including a one-hour family photo session, gift certificates to local restaurants and shops, dog training and boarding packages, and raffle baskets donated by generous SouthCoast businesses.

READ MORE: These Popular Halloween Candies Are Made Right Here in Massachusetts

To keep everyone fed and happy, Dad’s Lemonade & Ice Cream Truck, Matt’s Backyard BBQ, and Black Tie Cookies have already confirmed to roll in for the occasion, with more food trucks expected to join.

“We wanted to make sure there was something for everyone – families, kids, and anyone who wants to show support while having a great time," Carvalho said.

How to Get Involved

The team is still looking for a few more food trucks and local vendors to set up shop during the event. Anyone interested can contact Sue Abrantes at Sue@emetabolic.com for details. Vendors are welcome to decorate their spaces, hand out treats, and join in the Halloween spirit.

In addition to the $5 admission, every ticket sold and every raffle entered will directly benefit Maverick and his family as they continue navigating treatment and recovery.

Why It Matters

At just three years old, Maverick is facing an unimaginable challenge. His fight has inspired an entire community to come together in ways both big and small, from local businesses donating prizes to families volunteering their time. The Trunk or Treat at Empire Hyundai is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a moment for Fall River to show that hope, love, and unity are stronger than anything cancer can bring.

“Seeing how many people have already stepped up just proves how incredible this community is,” Carvalho said. “Maverick’s story has touched so many hearts.”

Carvalho and Abrantes are encouraging everyone to attend, donate, or share the event on social media to help spread the word.

This event is sponsored by Empire Hyundai, Christopher’s Café and Fitzgerald Counseling.