Treats & Charities

The end of October is often looked at as the best time of the year for many children, as it allows them a day to showcase their creativity, imaginative costumes, and most of all, their love for candy. October 31st, also known as Halloween, is a day where people of all ages can literally be whoever they want to be, even if it only lasts for 24 hours. The Halloween spirit is reflective even for those who do not decide to engage in the costumes and decorations. Countless families spend this time of year giving away candies and treats to the plethora of trick or treaters that ring their doorbells every year.

The generosity of Halloween spans much farther than just giving away candy to children for having expressive costumes, however. Many charities use this holiday to focus their efforts on methods of giving, via progressive programs and campaigns. For example, the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF program has been an active part of our communities for 66 years, with the mission of assisting kids who need more than just candy. Every year since 1950, children who decide to participate have gone door to door with a collection box, yelling out  “Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF”, and have subsequently raised over $175 million for the U.S Fund for UNICEF since the program’s inception.  

Other charities such as Operation Gratitude have partnered with various organizations in support and execution of their annual candy donation drive, Operation Troop Treats. The candy drive functions by collecting leftover candy donations and sending them via care packages, to servicemen and women overseas.

Another charity that's increasingly affiliated with Halloween is the Food Allergy Research & Education and their Teal Pumpkin Project. The project helps to raise awareness of food allergies and promotes inclusion of all trick-or-treaters.

The aforementioned are only a few of the many charities that spend their Halloweens formulating new ideas, programs, and campaigns designed to help those in need. If you are interested in supporting charities that have notable Halloween programs, please visit the following charity profiles. Last but not least, do not forget to evaluate these charities’ financial health and accountability and transparency, so that you can make the best of your donations!

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