It’s Halloweek! Teal Pumpkin Project
It’s day 3 of Halloweek! Be sure and check back on all of our fun. Today, I’m sharing a very special project that I’ve just became aware of this year. Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) works on behalf of the 15 million Americans with food allergies, including all those at risk for life-threatening anaphylaxis. Their Teal Pumpkin Project® is a worldwide movement to create a safer, happier Halloween for all kids. Putting a teal pumpkin on your doorstep means you have non-food treats available. This simple act promotes inclusion for trick-or-treaters with food allergies or other conditions.
My youngest son has tree and grass allergies, but they morphed from a dairy allergy when he was younger. Thankfully, ours is not life-threatening, just lots of skin issues and a little asthma when he was exposed to his allergens. But we’ve friends with a range of allergies from peanut to gluten, and several who carry an Epi-Pen.
I’m excited to share that we will be part of the project, sharing both candy and non-edible treats (in separate containers, of course!). Michaels (as a project sponsor) sells teal craft pumpkins so you can just put one out on your porch. I purchased one of their pumpkins with a hole already cut out, painted it with turquoise spray paint so I could turn it into a great treat holder. That evening, it will hold flameless candles for our porch.
From your local dollar store or favorite big box store, you can find lots of non-edible trinkets. Oriental Trading (another project sponsor) has a great selection of novelty assortment boxes from $10 – $20…I scored one that has everything from zombie rubber duckies to paddle balls. Some other great ideas to use…
- glow sticks
- sticker sheets
- crayons
- bubbles
- temporary tattoos
- plastic fangs
- Silly Putty
- crazy straws
- mini flashlights
- spider rings
- erasers
- pencils
- mini notebooks
Be sure and check out the website for a list of homes in your area participating and more ways to get involved, from fundraisers to free downloads to help with awareness!
Are you part of, or would like to be part of the Teal Pumpkin Project? Tell us what you are up to…
