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MCLEAN, Va. — FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), the nation’s leading non-profit organization engaged in food allergy advocacy and largest private funder of food allergy research, and CVS Pharmacy, part of the Pharmacy and Consumer Wellness division of CVS Health have again joined forces to promote food allergy inclusivity during major holidays and observances throughout the year. Starting with FARE’s Teal Pumpkin Project this Halloween season, CVS Pharmacy is offering convenient and affordable food-allergy safe items in select stores and online.
“We are thrilled to grow our partnership with CVS Pharmacy, a company that shares our dedication to inclusivity and safety,” remarked Sung Poblete, CEO of FARE. “Last year was such a great success and, this year, together, we will reach even more families across the nation, spreading awareness about food allergies and creating a sense of belonging during cherished celebrations. By combining our efforts, we will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the 85 million Americans who are affected by food allergies and intolerances.”
“We are proud to partner with FARE once again this Halloween season and into next year to make holidays safer by offering our shoppers even more food allergy-friendly options for their families,” says Brian Eason, vice president of general merchandise and consumables, CVS Health. “Our partnership with FARE has made it possible to accommodate the needs of every child and foster inclusive celebrations, while also bringing awareness to the important mission of FARE.”
In the U.S., one in every 13 children has a potentially life-threatening food allergy. The Teal Pumpkin Project, a nationwide movement to raise awareness of food allergies during the trick-or-treat season, helps make Halloween safer and more inclusive for children with food allergies by encouraging households to offer non-food treats alongside traditional candy so every child can experience Halloween joy. By displaying a teal-colored pumpkin on their doorstep, families signal that they are handing out non-food toys and trinkets in a separate bowl for trick or treaters.
As the exclusive retail partner of the Teal Pumpkin Project for the second year in a row, CVS Pharmacy is providing an even wider assortment of 100+ non-food treats in over 7,000 stores nationwide and online this Halloween season, with many items under $5. As part of the partnership, CVS will communicate Teal Pumpkin offerings with customers through in-store signage to help shoppers identify food-allergy friendly items including non-food treats such as light up toys, glow sticks, games and trick-or-treating supplies. Starting October 1, families looking to join the Teal Pumpkin Project can find participating CVS store locations on FARE’s interactive neighborhood map, which also features homes and events across the U.S. that offer alternatives to traditional Halloween candy.
The partnership between FARE and CVS Pharmacy will extend beyond Halloween and into Valentine’s Day 2024, as well as the Spring season. CVS Pharmacy will continue to offer a wide assortment of convenient and affordable allergy-friendly and non-food options, making it even easier for families and children living with food allergies to celebrate the holidays safely.
To learn more about the Teal Pumpkin Project and download FARE materials such as tips on making Halloween a safe holiday, free Teal Pumpkin Project resources, ideas for non-food items and the official Teal Pumpkin Project map, visit foodallergy.org. For more information including downloadable resources and to shop Teal Pumpkin Project items available at CVS Pharmacy, visit CVS.com/Halloween.
