As you are out trick or treating you may see a few teal pumpkins… Just what do they represent?
A nonprofit group — Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) — launched the Teal Pumpkin Project in 2014. The hope is that this special Halloween decoration will raise awareness about an issue that is important to many families.
One in 13 children have food allergies. That makes it tough for them to participate in things like trick-or-treating. A lot of popular candies contain common food allergens. That means that candy is NOT an option for most of these children.
Here is how the Teal Pumpkin Project works…Participants place teal pumpkins in front of their homes. That indicates that they have pledged to give away non-food treats to trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Instead, they will be giving away things like stickers, toys, or glow sticks.
Teal is the color of food allergy awareness. Participants can paint their own teal pumpkins, purchase them online or at some local stores. The FARE website also has signs that participants can download and print. The group is also encouraging those taking part to register their address on the official map of participating locations. The goal for 2016 is to have at least one teal pumpkin of every residential block.
Photo: YouTube/Food Allergy Research & Education
