Introducing the Teal Pumpkin Project! SGK October Giving Back
Happy October! This month's SGK Gives is all about the Halloween Teal Pumpkin Project
Does anyone else feel like October has a hint of excitement in the air? It's my favorite month because I know the next three months are full of fun, holidays and a break from the Charleston humidity and heat!
And that also means Halloween is first up to bat for the holidays ahead! Queue-happy children everywhere deciding on Halloween costumes, houses decorated with pumpkins and witch hats and the anticipation of trick or treating brewing in every child.
While this is all part of the fun of being a kid, a small group of kids can feel really left out during these fun fall activities because of food allergies. So, this October, our Shrimp and Grits Kids Gives Back theme is the Teal Pumpkin Project.
Thanks to The Teal Pumpkin Project, We Can Make It Safe and Fun for Every Child!
What Is the Teal Pumpkin Project?
Putting a teal pumpkin on your doorstep means you have nonfood treats available, such as glow sticks or small toys. This simple act promotes inclusion for trick-or-treaters with food allergies or other conditions.
How Can You Participate?
Participating is super easy!
- Place a teal pumpkin in front of your home to indicate to parents and kids that you have nonfood treats available.
- Provide non-food treats for trick-or-treaters
- Spread the word! Share the Teal Pumpkin Project with your friends and family
Why Is This Important?
Halloween can be a tricky time for families managing food allergies. Many traditional Halloween treats aren't safe for children with life-threatening food allergies. The Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple way to make trick-or-treating safer and more inclusive for one in 13 children with food allergies.
Placing a teal pumpkin on your doorstep signals that, besides candy, you offer nonfood trinkets and safe treats for all trick-or-treaters. It keeps Halloween a fun, positive experience for all!
The Heart Behind The Teal Pumpkin Project
Around 1 in 13 children has a food allergy. Halloween, while exciting, can become challenging for parents and kids. Certain types of candy might contain nuts, dairy, soy, or wheat - common allergens that pose a threat to many children. The Teal Pumpkin Project ensures that all kids can participate in Halloween trick-or-treating without being left out of all the fun.
Choosing the Right Nonfood Treats
It's not just about avoiding food; it's about ensuring that every treat is safe. When selecting nonfood treats, remember:
Some nonfood items, like certain brands of moldable clay, can contain food allergens like wheat. Be sure to read labels on things.
Opt for latex-free items. Just as with food, some children have allergies to latex.
Can I Still Pass out Candy?
Of course! Absolutely! This is just a reminder that not all kids can tolerate certain foods and have allergies that can cause them to be very sick!
The point of the Teal Pumpkin Project is to make it so that every child can participate in trick-and-treating without worrying about an allergy holding them back. You can keep things safe by putting food treats in one bowl and nonfood treats in another.
Will You Help Us Share?
Let's spread some Halloween smiles for all the kids out there! We'd love you to share with your family, friends and even schools! Together, we can ensure every child is included regardless if they have dietary restrictions.
Are You Participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project?
Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to tag us on social media!
Shrimp and Grits Kids cares about all kids and wants to ensure every child experiences the joys of childhood and the Holiday season. And that starts with Halloween. So, will you help us? Share with your friends and family and feel free to contact us with any questions! Happy Halloween!