Nonprofit ‘Midnight Lantern Foundation’ Launches To Bring Imaginative Joy To Families In Need

The Midnight Lantern Foundation has officially launched as a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing comfort, creativity, and imaginative joy to children and families facing hardship. The Foundation’s goal is to leverage storytelling and fandom to encourage literacy, spark imagination, and foster meaningful community connections through books, comics, games, art, and genre-inspired gifts.

Rooted in a love of horror, fantasy, science fiction, comics, books, and gaming, the nonprofit was established on the belief that stories and creative expression are essential to emotional well-being. Genre storytelling, in particular, has long helped readers process fear, build resilience, and find hope through imagination.

“I have a lifelong personal connection to horror, fantasy, science fiction, role-playing games, and comics, said Cullen Bunn, MLF co-founder and president. “Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how stories can help individuals cope, connect, and see themselves reflected in imaginative realms. Midnight Lantern is built on the idea that these creative outlets can have a meaningful and positive impact on families today.”

Bunn is a New York Times bestselling writer, best known for his work in comic books and genre storytelling. His career includes creator-owned horror and fantasy series as well as projects for major publishers such as Marvel and DC Comics. Notable works include Uncanny X-Men, Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe, The Sixth Gun, and Harrow County. Throughout his work, Bunn has explored themes of fear, empathy, and human connection. These elements directly inform the mission of the Midnight Lantern Foundation.

Fandom and creative communities play a central role in the Foundation’s philosophy. By partnering with donors, creators, and community organizations, Midnight Lantern collects and distributes books, games, toys, and imaginative materials to families in need. These efforts are designed to provide not only physical gifts but also opportunities for creativity, connection, and shared experiences.

“I’m proud to be a part of Midnight Lantern Foundation from the ground up,” said Cindy Bunn, MLF co-founder and vice president. “I’m looking forward to lending a helping hand to families who may be going through tough times financially.”

During its first year of operation, the Midnight Lantern Foundation will launch a focused pilot program. The organization’s initial initiative will involve assembling curated gift bundles that include books, comics, games, toys, and age-appropriate genre items, delivering them to a limited number of families during the 2026 holiday season. This phased approach prioritizes impact, transparency, and long-term sustainability.

The Midnight Lantern Foundation is intentionally designed to grow thoughtfully rather than rapidly. By starting small and evaluating each step, the organization aims to build responsible, community-centered programs that support young readers, creative thinkers, and families through the imaginative power of storytelling.

In addition to direct outreach efforts, the Foundation will maintain a presence at select conventions and events, where free comics and materials will be distributed to help raise awareness and encourage community involvement.

A Givebutter campaign has been launched to help raise initial operating expenses at this link.

For more information about the Midnight Lantern Foundation, including ways to get involved or contribute, visit www.midnightlantern.org.

The Midnight Lantern Foundation is a verified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.