Halloween is a blast, but when it’s all said and done, there can be too much of a good thing, particularly when it comes to candy. Instead of eating all or letting it go to waste, this year, show your kids a different kind of treat, the feeling of helping others.
Halloween Candy Buy Back Program
Visit this site to search for a participating dentist near you who will accept candy in exchange for toothbrushes, coupons, and sometimes even cash. Important note: It’s crucial that you call ahead. Many dentists set certain buy back rules, i.e. a maximum amount of candy or specific drop-off hours.
Ronald McDonald House Charities
The Ronald McDonald House serves families of severely ill kids, allowing them to stick together during challenging circumstances. Post-Halloween, most locations accept donations of unopened candy for the families being served. Be sure to call ahead first before heading over to your nearest location with goodies in tow.
Operation Gratitude
Operation Gratitude sends care packages to U.S. troops stationed in overseas and first responders here in the US. In 2016, the organization collected 533,891 pounds of candy to share! The organization’s mission is simply this: to put a smile on soldiers’ faces. The website contains important shipping info and kids are encouraged to include letters and pictures. Check out the organization’s map for drop-off locations.
Operation Shoebox and Any Soldier
Similar to Operation Gratitude, these organizations collect & send care packages to troops overseas. Operation Shoebox accepts individually wrapped candies all year long. Meanwhile, Any Soldier allows you to decide which branch of the armed forces you’d like to support: Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines.
