Kane County Reporter

Halloween can be a frightening time for children with food allergies. With 1 in 13 children affected by food allergies, it is important to raise awareness and create a safe and inclusive environment for all trick-or-treaters. One initiative that aims to do just that is the Teal Pumpkin Project.

The Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple yet impactful way to make trick-or-treating safer and more inclusive. By placing a teal pumpkin on your doorstep, you are signaling that you offer non-food trinkets and treats that are safe for children with food allergies. This small gesture can make a big difference in the lives of those who may otherwise miss out on the Halloween fun.

"We want to make sure that every child, regardless of their dietary restrictions, can participate in the joy of trick-or-treating," says the spokesperson of the Teal Pumpkin Project.

To participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project, you can easily find teal pumpkins online or at stores that sell Halloween decorations. Additionally, the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) website provides free resources to help spread the word about offering non-food treats.

"If you want to spread the word, there are flyers you can hand out to neighbors, businesses, schools, and friends," advises FARE.

In order to provide these non-food treats, there are various low-cost items available at select stores. These items can be purchased and handed out to all trick-or-treaters, making sure that everyone can enjoy a safe and inclusive Halloween experience. From glow sticks and pencils to stickers and bookmarks, there are plenty of options to choose from.

"We encourage everyone to consider offering both candy and non-food treats in separate bowls," suggests FARE. "This way, children with food allergies can have a safe option."

In addition to participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project, FARE also provides allergy-safe tips for trick-or-treating. These tips include approaching Halloween with caution, diligent label-reading, and being aware of potential allergens that may be present in certain candies or treats.

"We want families to have a fun and worry-free Halloween," says FARE. "By following these tips, we can ensure that children with food allergies can fully enjoy the holiday."

To find more information about the Teal Pumpkin Project, including fall recipes, candy facts, and the Teal Pumpkin Project Map, you can visit FARE's website at https://www.foodallergy.org/our-initiatives/awareness-campaigns/living-teal/teal-pumpkin-project.

This Halloween, let's come together as a community to support kids with food allergies. By joining the Teal Pumpkin Project and offering non-food treats, we can make a positive impact and create a Halloween that is safe and inclusive for all trick-or-treaters.

Click this link to access more information: https://repugaste.com/2023/10/20/support-kids-with-food-allergies-this-halloween-join-the-teal-pumpkin-project/