Teal Pumpkin Project provides safe alternatives to food treats during Halloween
The Teal Pumpkin Project™ (TTP) created by FARE (Food Allergy Research and Awareness) continues to grow its mission on Daniel Island and worldwide. The TPP is a campaign that raises awareness of food allergies and promotes a safer, healthier and happier Halloween by encouraging households to have non-food treats available for trick-or-treaters who must avoid candy due to food allergies or other reasons that limit their ability to fully participate.
Residents can show they are participating just by placing a teal pumpkin or sign in front of their home or business. This has become quite a creative effort over the years. From simple acrylic painted pumpkins to elaborate and artistic displays, residents and even retailers have joined in the fun with their own versions of teal pumpkins and signage. Many communities and schools have competitions for the most creative displays.
There are over 32 million Americans who are unable to enjoy a typical candy-filled Halloween, having a diagnosis of a variety of diseases and conditions, many of which are life threatening. These include, but are not limited to, food allergies and anaphylaxis, diabetes, celiac disease, food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, and eosinophilic esophagitis.
Last year, households from 50 states and ten countries participated in the project. This year, you can be part of an even bigger and healthier movement!
Visit www.foodallergy.org to join millions of homes pledging to participate. An interactive map will allow you to list your location and shows other places in your area where safe treats can be found. You can also print free flyers, brochures, and find other TPP goodies on the website.
Daniel Island joined this initiative years ago under the leadership of local mom Cathy Leeke, founder of Lowcountry R.O.C.K (Raising Our Celiac Kids). Soon she was assisted by this writer, a Daniel Island mom and nurse food allergy and anaphylaxis educator.
The local group, TPP DI, participates in the Annual Pumpkin Walk, which will be held Saturday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at Smythe Lake. A table will be available with free teal paint, samples of non-food treats, printed information, and other educational materials.
TPP DI also participates in Lowcountry Live segments, presents information in local schools, and this year will add the Philip Simmons Middle School PTSA Fall Festival as a Trunk or Treat sponsor. This event will be held Oct. 19, 3-6 p.m. at the middle school and will include trunk or treating, live music, food vendors, and games. Contact Lisa Kerns at lisakerns.crs@gmail.com for more information on this fun family event.
For more information or to volunteer, contact Valary Dreyer at valarydreyer@bellsouth.net. Join TPP DI and display a teal pumpkin to indicate your support with non-food treats.