To the Editor:

At this time of year, when children look forward to the annual Halloween door-to-door trick-or-treating activity, which usually means goody bags full of candy and other sweet treats, there are 15 million Americans who cannot participate in this activity due to food allergies.

However, Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) has created a program, the Teal Pumpkin Project™, to provide an opportunity for children with food allergies or for whom candy is not an option to participate in the fun of Halloween trick or treating.

There are hundreds of thousands of households who have already pledged to participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project, and it is simple to join. Just hang a teal pumpkin in front of your home along with a free printable sign from FARE, indicating you have nonfood treats available, and then purchase some nonfood treats to distribute. You’ll often find these items cost less than the candy you usually buy.

For information, a guideline for use and a list of suggestions for nonfood treats, contact aluke@foodallergy.org or visit foodallergy.org/teal-pumpkin-project.

Here’s to a safer, happier Halloween for all children.

Matthew Fenstermaker

Macungie