Scares Turn Into Hope as $32,868 Raised for Local Firefighter

What began as an idea from the Silsbee Volunteer Fire Department turned into an extraordinary demonstration of community love and support as Halls of Horror announced that an incredible $32,868 was raised in just six nights to benefit local volunteer firefighter Mike Morrison in his battle against ALS.

The announcement came following the conclusion of this year's haunted attraction, leaving organizers overwhelmed with gratitude for the generosity shown by the community.

“To every single person who helped make this possible, thank you!” organizers shared while announcing the remarkable fundraising total.

The idea for Halls of Horror originated with the Silsbee Volunteer Fire Department, whose members wanted to find a creative way to support one of their own. Knowing that organizing a haunted house would require a special kind of talent, they brought in Jason Barnes, who has extensive experience and a passion for building haunted houses.

With Barnes bringing his knowledge and creativity to the project, the idea quickly began taking shape. But creating an attraction of this size would require more than just a few helping hands.

That's when the community answered the call.

Members of the Silsbee Volunteer Fire Department, community members, and countless volunteers stepped forward to help bring Halls of Horror to life. From constructing the attraction and preparing the scares to working behind the scenes and welcoming guests, the project became a true community effort.

For six nights, Halls of Horror brought the thrills and chills of Halloween to Silsbee, but behind the frightening costumes, spooky decorations, and screams was a much greater purpose: helping someone who has spent years answering the call to help others.

Morrison, a longtime member of the Silsbee Volunteer Fire Department, has dedicated himself to serving his community. In 2014, he was recognized as the department's Fireman of the Year, an honor reflecting his commitment to helping those in need.

Now, as Morrison faces his own difficult battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS, the community has come together to return that same spirit of compassion and service.

The $32,868 raised represents far more than a successful fundraising effort. It represents firefighters standing beside a fellow firefighter, volunteers giving their time without expecting anything in return, and a community choosing to make a difference.

With an average of $5,478 raised per night, the six-night event demonstrated just how much can be accomplished when people work together for a common cause.

The success of Halls of Horror also highlights the dedication of the Silsbee Volunteer Fire Department, whose members already give countless hours protecting their community. This time, their mission extended beyond fighting fires and responding to emergencies. They wanted to make a difference in the life of someone who had stood alongside them in service.

Barnes' expertise in haunted house construction, combined with the hard work of firefighters and community volunteers, helped transform a simple fundraising idea into an unforgettable Halloween attraction.

While the frightening sights and sounds of Halls of Horror have come to an end for another season, the impact of this year's event will be remembered for a much different reason.

For Morrison and his family, the tremendous support serves as a reminder that they are not facing this battle alone.

And for the firefighters, Barnes, and the many volunteers who made the event possible, the final total is proof that an idea fueled by compassion can grow into something truly remarkable.

This year, Halls of Horror may have been filled with screams, but its greatest accomplishment was giving an entire community something worth cheering about.

Six nights. $32,868 raised. One firefighter, one community, and countless hearts coming together to make a difference.