Trick-or-treating is a blast.
But all that candy can lead to sugar-crashed, cranky kids and cavities.
Don't throw it away, though. After sneaking your favorites from the loot bag (Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, anyone?) and saving some for the kids, take it to Kool Smiles at 2990 S. Sixth Ave or 5504 E. 22nd Street from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 28 through Nov. 4.
The candy is put in care packages that are sent to men and women serving in the armed forces overseas as part of the national campaign, Operation Gratitude.
For every 25 pieces of candy you donate, your child gets a toy. There is no limit to how much candy you can drop off, but there is a limit of three toys per child.
Kool Smiles started Operation Troop Treats as a way to encourage good dental habits at home during the Halloween season while giving families a way to give back to troops who are stationed overseas. There are 124 Kool Smiles offices participating nationwide.
The dental office, of course, includes dental floss, toothbrushes and toothpaste along with the candy.
Since the program was launched in 2012, Kool Smiles has been able to donate more than eight tons of candy.
"It's wonderful to see so many young children giving up their candy to help put smiles on the faces of our servicemen and women deployed overseas," said Carolyn Blashek, founder of Operation Gratitude.
