By Monica Garcia, Regional Director of ECI Services
Everyone’s favorite spooky holiday is just around the corner. As we prepare to dress up, Trick or Treat and celebrate Halloween its important to keep an eye out for teal pumpkins. The Teal Pumpkin Project was started in 2014 by FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) to promote inclusion for people living with allergies and food intolerances. In fact, currently 1 in 13 children are living with food allergies and many others are impacted by intolerances or other conditions that prevent them from enjoying the typical sweets that we distribute on Halloween night.
Placing a teal pumpkin on your doorstep signifies that other goodies are available to trick or treaters instead of just candy. Furthermore, these can include non-food trinkets and allergen free treats for one and all. The most important thing to consider when deciding to participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project is to never assume what kind of allergies a child has and instead if you spot a child carrying a teal pumpkin basket ask their parents what kind of non- food treats you can give their child.
When deciding what non-food treats consider these low-cost alternatives
- Glow sticks
- Bubbles
- Mini Sticker or Activity books
- Pencils
- Bouncy Balls
- Pop its
- Erasers
- Squishees
- Party Favor Necklaces
- Stamps
Participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project is a great way to help everyone enjoy a safe and fun Halloween!
