CVS Stores In Rhode Island Expanding Allergy-Free Options For Halloween Goodies

WOONSOCKET, RI — In the United States, one out of every 13 children suffer from food allergies and intolerances, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

So, CVS Health is partnering with Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) for a second straight year to make trick-or-treating on Halloween more accessible for those children.

CVS, a Woonsocket-based company, partnered with FARE on its Teal Pumpkin Project. The project encourages people to place teal-colored pumpkins on their doorsteps to signal that in addition to candy, non-food goodies and food allergy-safe treats are available for trick-or-treaters.

“We are thrilled to grow our partnership with CVS Pharmacy, a company that shares our dedication to inclusivity and safety,” FARE CEO Sung Poblete said. "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."

To help raise awareness for the project, CVS executives said they will simplify Halloween shopping for families with food allergy concerns again in 2023. But this time, the selection is even larger.

The retailer plans to offer more than 100 non-food treats in 7,000 stores nationwide and online. Many of those items will be under $5, the retailer said, and items will be marked in stores to indicate if they are allergy-safe. Non-food treats like light-up toys, glow sticks, games and trick-or-treating supplies will be among the offerings.

"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," Brian Eason, a vice president for CVS Health, said. "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."

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