News
October 13, 2016Guilderland Center Rehabilitation to Host Trick-or-Treat Spooktacular
It’s October. And that means that Halloween is fast approaching. For many Capital Region 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, Guilderland Center Rehabilitation and Extended Care Facility (428 Route 146, Altamont) will host its first annual Guilderland Center Trick-or-Treat Spooktacular in partnership with the Teal Pumpkin Project, a worldwide movement to create a safer, happier Halloween for all kids. The event is set for Saturday, Oct. 29 from 1-3 p.m. at 428 Route 146, Altamont.
“Food allergies are a life-altering and potentially life-threatening disease,” said Guilderland Center Rehabilitation and Extended Care Facility Admissions Coordinator Wendy Decker, 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 small amount of their allergen has the potential to cause a bad 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 Guilderland Center Rehabilitation and Extended Care Facility 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 collecting devilish delights along the way. Halloween bags will be provided for children to collect their treats while supplies last.
“For the residents of nursing facilities, children are always a welcome addition to the day,” said Guilderland Center Rehabilitation and Extended Care Facility Administrator Josh Gurock. “Halloween provides an opportunity for them to not only see all the fun and different costumes, but also return to the days when their own kids were dressing up.”
For more information, please call (518) 861-5141, or visit guilderlandnh.com.
