TRICK-OR-TREAT SPOOKTACULAR SUNDAY AT THE GRAND

For many families, Halloween can be tricky because many traditional Halloween treats aren’t safe for children with life-threatening food allergies.

In an effort to promote safety, inclusion and respect of individuals managing food allergies, The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Rome will host its second annual Trick-or-Treat Spooktacular on Sunday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m. at 801 N. James St.

The event, featuring non-food treats for kids with food allergies, costume contest and Trick-or-Treating, is held in partnership with the Teal Pumpkin Project, a worldwide movement to create a safer, happier Halloween for all kids

“Food allergies are a life-altering and potentially life-threatening disease, and a growing public health issue,” The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Rome Activities Director Leigh Nicholas said, noting that one in 13 children has an allergy to peanuts, nuts, and soy, or has been diagnosed with Celiac Disease and need to stay away from gluten and wheat.

“For these children, even a tiny amount of their allergen has the potential to cause a severe reaction.

“By placing a teal pumpkin in front of our facility and offering non-food treats such as yo-yo’s, teal-colored frisbees and other toys as an alternative to candy, we can show children with severe allergies that The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Rome is a safe place to trick-or-treat without the dangers,” she added.

The haunted afternoon will feature a costume contest with prizes by age group. Youngsters can also trick or treat throughout the facility.

“For the residents of nursing facilities, children are always a welcome addition to the day,” said The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Rome Administrator Kristen Spohr-Fulmer. “Halloween provides an opportunity for them to interact with young children and bring back memories of their childhood. It also takes them back to the days when their own children were the kids dressing up.”