Understanding the Teal Pumpkin on Your Neighbor’s Porch
The Teal Pumpkin Project is a significant initiative aimed at making Halloween safer and more inclusive for children with food allergies. Founded by Becky Basalone in 2013, the movement has expanded from a local effort to a global campaign supported by Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE).
Understanding the Teal Pumpkin Initiative
The Teal Pumpkin Project symbolizes the availability of non-food treats for trick-or-treaters with food allergies. When families place a teal pumpkin on their porch, it signals that they are providing safe alternatives, such as glow sticks, stickers, or small toys, instead of traditional candy. This initiative allows all children to enjoy Halloween without the fear of allergic reactions.
Origins of the Teal Pumpkin Project
Becky Basalone initiated the project after her son Caden was diagnosed with multiple life-threatening food allergies. Concerned about his safety during Halloween, the Basalones painted a pumpkin teal and offered non-food treats in 2013. This simple gesture quickly gained popularity, leading to its national adoption by FARE in 2014.
Why Teal Pumpkins Matter
Currently, about 8% of children in the United States are diagnosed with food allergies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 40% of these children have needed emergency care for allergic reactions. For families with food allergy concerns, traditional trick-or-treating can be risky due to unsafe candies. Thus, the Teal Pumpkin Project plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe Halloween.
How to Get Involved
Participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project is simple. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Display a teal pumpkin on your porch.
- Offer non-food treats exclusively to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use the FARE Teal Pumpkin Project map to help children find homes providing safe options.
Recommended Non-Food Treats
FARE suggests the following alternatives for Halloween:
- Glow sticks
- Stickers
- Playing cards
- Vampire fangs
- Bouncy balls
It’s essential to avoid items like Play-Doh or finger paint, as they may contain allergens. To increase awareness, FARE provides printable resources, including flyers that can be displayed at homes participating in the project.
Conclusion
The Teal Pumpkin Project fosters inclusivity and safety during Halloween. By taking part in this initiative, families can create a welcoming environment for children with food allergies, ensuring that every child can partake in the festive spirit.
