SEATTLE – Halloween sparks excitement for costumes, pumpkin carving and planning safe trick-or-treating routes. Parents are more cautious than ever before when it comes to what their children receive from neighbors during Trick-or-Treating. Bartell’s is offering a solution by participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project.

Parents and children alike have food allergies or preferences that make holidays like this challenging. For Halloween to be fun for all, the Teal Pumpkin Project offers a solution. By displaying a teal pumpkin, parents and children are made aware that those houses offer non-food trinkets and toys in place of candy for trick-or-treaters. This project makes Halloween safer and more inclusive for all to enjoy.

“Several years ago, my daughter was diagnosed with a debilitating gastro-intestinal problem known as Celiac disease.” said Tom Harkins, Bartell’s associate category manager. “Families that live with Celiac understand the effort it takes to surmount the challenges and sensitivities of this disease. They are hyper aware of the triggers that can bring on painful reactions.

We brought in the Teal Pumpkin Project to Bartell’s to show our support for the kids, adults, and families that face Celiac and other food allergies that are especially difficult to manage this time of year. We want everyone to enjoy Halloween.”

Teal Pumpkins are available for purchase at Bartell’s along with a selection of non-food treats and trinkets. For more information and suggestions for alternatives to handing out candy, visit www.bartelldrugs.com/blog/teal-pumpkin-project/.