The Teal Pumpkin Project

Halloween costume: Check

Halloween candy: Check

EpiPen: Check

The-Teal-Pumpkin-Project-2Yes, that”s right. One in 13 children trick-or-treating this year may be carrying an EpiPen just in case they are exposed to any allergens during this fun time out. Unless it directly affects your child, you may not even think about the reaction the candy you”ll be passing out will have on some of those dressed up kiddos. This is where the Teal Pumpkin Project comes into play. The Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) group is encouraging us to think outside the box for Halloween this year. If you decide that you do want to hand out non-food treats such as glow sticks, stickers, or spider rings then you simply paint a pumpkin teal and place it on your front porch. This alerts those families affected by food allergies that your house is handing out safe treats. You can also print a poster and hang it up as well.

Seriously, I get all choked up thinking about it. In this hard, selfish world I love seeing people who are willing to make an exception for others. I savor those who, simply out of compassion, are willing to change their current habit to help others. Plus, who really wants their kids eating all that candy anyway? Ugh, not me! For those who argue that passing out candy is Halloween tradition, then what about the roots of Halloween? There is a lot about the origins of the holiday that we no longer celebrate. (Thankfully!)

About a year ago, I met Lisa Rutter of No Nuts Moms Group. I”ve followed her group on Facebook and my eyes have been opened to the food allergy world. Not only have I learned that so many families struggle with food allergies but I have also learned that they hate inconveniencing others, but just like any good parent, stop at nothing to make sure their child is protected and safe. The-Teal-Pumpkin-Project-5

As you”re choosing your treats to hand out this year, consider the Teal Pumpkin Project. FARE also has a lot of great ideas for non-candy items that are still very much in the spirit of Halloween. You can always plan ahead for next year and wait until those items go on clearance after Halloween this year and save them for next year since they won”t expire.

Happy Halloween!

About Meghan Zeile

Mom-in-the-know and local writer for Rochester Media. Always looking for tips with kids, family life, and fun local adventures. Contact at Meghan@rochestermedia.com

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