At the end of the trick-or-treat night, many parents look on in dismay at the piles of candy their children have collected. Allow them to pick out some candy to keep, and then choose a charitable organization to donate the remaining treats. This is a great way to teach kids moderation and the selfless act of giving to those who are less fortunate. Here are five resources to consider when choosing where to donate:
- Contact your local Ronald McDonald House about your leftover Halloween candy. The first Ronald McDonald House opened in 1974 in Philadelphia. The organization now has chapters in 54 countries, all committed to the same mission: improving the health and well-being of children.
- Operation Gratitude sends over 100,000 packages a year to U.S. service members, their children and wounded soldiers. They happily accept unwanted Halloween candy, as well as toiletry items, letters and drawings, and other donations. The shipping address for candy is: Operation Gratitude/California Army National Guard, 17330 Victory Boulevard, Van Nuys, CA 91406, Attn: Rich Hernandez: 262-674-7281 (262-OPGRAT-1). See their website for a donation form and more detailed shipping information.
- Founded in 2003 to send support, snacks and personal care items to U.S. servicemen and women deployed outside of the country, Operation Shoebox will make sure your unwanted candy gets to the troops. Send leftover candy to: Operation Shoebox, 8360 E Highway 25, Belleview, FL 34420.
- Homeless shelters often welcome candy donations. To find a shelter in your community, check the Homeless Shelter Directory. Contact a shelter near you for specifics on how to donate.
- Food Banks may be another source accepting of leftover candy. Some prefer not to accept treats in their efforts to promote nutritious choices, while others, are happy to accept these donations. If you want to donate leftover candy to a food bank, it is important to work with your local organization. Find a food bank near you at Feeding America. Contact them directly to arrange a drop-off.
Move that unwanted excess candy out of your house and into the hands, and stomach, of someone who needs a little extra help. Consider making Halloween candy donation an annual tradition. Also consider supporting one of these organizations throughout the year with financial assistance, or through the donation of needed items. Use this time of year to help your children and family look beyond themselves to see how they may help others.
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