If you’re reading this, you’re probably a dedicated horror fan that knows just how much this community can uplift others, especially those in need. It’s a truly special little corner of fandom, and now, author Cullen Bunn is taking advantage of just how meaningful it can be. He announced today on his Substack that he’s launching The Midnight Lantern Foundation, a new nonprofit dedicated to providing families in need with not only literary materials, but a sense of community within a fandom.
According to Bunn, the Midnight Lantern Foundation is “dedicated to bringing comfort, creativity, and joy to children and families in need through the power of storytelling and fandom…Midnight Lantern is built on the idea that these creative outlets can have a meaningful and positive impact on families today.” The nonprofit’s first year of operation will focus on providing curated bundles of books, comics, and age-appropriate genre items to kids in need during the 2026 holiday season.
After that, nothing has been announced, but Bunn says that the foundation is prioritizing “impact, transparency, sustainability, and community engagement,” with his wife Cindy co-running the program alongside Josh Roberts, Greg Ward, and Tim Parker.
“We wanted to do something to bring some happiness and joy to families in need, something small but meaningful, something that could illuminate a dark night,” Bunn wrote in the announcement. “We wanted to share a love of horror, dark fantasy, fantasy, and science fiction. The stories that scared us, thrilled us, comforted us. We wanted to create something that didn’t just offer up gifts, but passed along imagination, curiosity, and hope. And, so, the lantern was lit. The Midnight Lantern Foundation was born from a simple belief. Stories matter. Imagination matters. And sometimes, a book, a game, or a small piece of wonder can be a light in the shadows.”
For more information on The Midnight Lantern Foundation and its goals, you can check out their website.
