YORK, Pa. — A York County man has taken his love for Halloween to the next level by transforming his home into a house of horrors, but it’s all for a good cause.
For more than five years, Thom Mandell has decorated his home for Halloween, adding new props and decorations every year. In 2020, Mandell’s love for the holiday took on a new meaning after visiting several Facebook groups online.
“A few years ago, we got involved in a national group, Skeletons for St. Jude to fundraise for the hospital,” recalled Mandell.
The charity originally started in North Carolina, but has since expanded across the United States. Mandell is just one of more than 550 people who decorate their homes to raise money for St. Jude; visitors are able to seamlessly donate by scanning QR codes found on each property.
“It’s just such a great way to have people stop by, check out the house and make a small donation. Any donation, a dollar, five dollars, two hundred dollars, whatever it is, it all goes to such a great cause,” Mandell expressed.
Decorators can spend thousands of dollars each year on new props and decorations, but Mandell says that he purchases most of his items at thrift stores and flea markets.
“We don’t try to focus on what our family outlays on this, my bigger concern is getting the word out in the community,” Mandell said.
While the usual jogger might view his display as frightening, Mandell says people’s fear eventually turns to generosity.
“Once I explain to people what I love to do with Halloween, but also the fundraising piece, everyone just has a warm feeling and is really supportive,” Mandell told FOX43.
Skeletons for St. Jude have raised more than $500,000 since 2020, and Mandell expects to raise more money as more people get involved.
“It’s just so nice that we’re getting the word out and the group is growing year after year,” Mandell expressed.