Halloween is quickly approaching and it should be a fun time for all children to enjoy! However, 1 out of 13 children deal with food allergies and Halloween only reminds these kids that they can’t indulge in the the sweet treats. Three years ago, FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) campaigned to educate people about food allergies. During that time, a Tennessee mom created the Teal Pumpkin Project to allow these children to enjoy trick or treating with friends and family. Through this project, this mom made one simple change: she went to her local party or dollar store and purchased some items for children with allergies. Then, when they came to her house she had a sign that read, “We support kids with food allergies. Non food items found here.” Trick or Treaters were invited to choose a candy treat or prize (glow sticks, bracelets, stickers, spider rings to name a few.)
This project started in 2014 with great success. Last year, there were households in all 50 states participating, as well as in 14 countries. If you would like to join the cause in your area, please check out www.foodallergy.org/teal-pumpkin. They have signs you can print off and offer suggestions for non-food treats.
Bravo! What an awesome and thoughtful idea!
