Milpitas teen helps students with food allergies get treats, not tricks

"A teal pumpkin on a doorstep means that non-food treats are available for trick-or-treaters,"

"Last year, I delivered teal pumpkins filled with non-food treats to 12 elementary and middle schools, two dentists and my pediatrician. I received positive feedback about how much it meant for students with food allergies to feel seen and be included."

"Our team of 22 teens is focused on distributing teal pumpkins in our communities, partnering with schools, libraries, YMCAs and local organizations with the goal of making Halloween safer and more inclusive for children with food allergies."

Amari Sims has avoided peanuts, tree nuts and sesame since age five and carries an EpiPen to school. He organized teal pumpkins—signals that non-food treats are available—for Milpitas schools, dentists and his pediatrician, delivering to 12 elementary and middle schools. Positive responses led him to expand the effort into a Teen Advisory Group of 22 teens partnering with schools, libraries, YMCAs and local organizations to distribute teal pumpkins more widely. He has advocated in Washington, D.C., met federal lawmakers, and drafted state legislation to cap epinephrine costs and increase access. The school district and CVS recognized his work.

Read at The Mercury News