This year Madison collected so much candy we had no idea what to do with it. Since we’re not big candy eaters in our household, we started thinking of what to do with all the leftover Halloween candy if we’re not going to eat them all. If you’re looking to get rid of all your unused, leftover Halloween candy, we are sharing over ten places you can donate all that Halloween candy to!
It’s that time of year again when costumes, candy, and decorations fill up store aisles. While it can be exciting to prepare for Halloween, sometimes all that candy can be overwhelming. After going trick-or-treating or taking part in other festivities, what do you do with all your sweets? Here are some places to donate your Halloween candy and tips for storage!
1. Local Food Pantries or Soup Kitchens
While candy may not be the healthiest food, it can still be a welcome treat for people who are struggling to make ends meet. Many food pantries and soup kitchens accept candy donations year-round, but they are especially in need of sweets during the holiday season. Check with your local pantry or kitchen to see if they have any specific guidelines for candy donations.
2. Ronald McDonald House
Ronald McDonald Houses provide a home away from home for families with children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. They accept candy donations year-round, but they especially appreciate them during the holidays! The candy is given to families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses or Ronald McDonald Family Rooms. You can check to see if there is a Ronald McDonald House near you and learn more about how to donate here.
3. USO
The United Service Organizations (USO) provide morale-boosting programs and services to members of the military and their families. One way you can support the USO is by donating your Halloween candy! The organization has collection boxes in select locations – you can find one near you here.
4. Toys for Tots
Toys for Tots is a program run by the US Marine Corps Reserve that collects new, unwrapped toys and distributes them to children in need. While they mostly collect toys during the holiday season, you can also donate Halloween candy to Toys for Tots year-round! You can find a drop-off location near you here.
5. Local Dentists’ Offices
Many dentists’ offices will have candy buy-back programs around Halloween time where they will pay you for your extra sweets! They typically then send the candy to troops overseas. You can check with your dentist to see if they are participating in a buy-back program this year.
6. Military Service Members
There are numerous organizations that collect candy donations to send to deployed service members, like Operation Gratitude and Soldiers’ Angels. These groups will often have specific guidelines for what types of candy can be donated, so be sure to check before sending anything.
7. Children’s Hospitals
Hospitals always appreciate candy donations to help brighten the days of their young patients. Contact your nearest children’s hospital to see if they have any specific guidelines for candy donations.
8. Senior Citizen Homes
Like hospitals, senior citizen homes are always happy to receive candy donations. The sweet treats can help bring a smile to the faces of residents, many of whom may not be able to get out and about as much as they’d like.
9. Animal Shelters
While you may not want to feed your extra Halloween candy to your own pets, animal shelters would be more than happy to take it off your hands. Shelters can use the candy in doggy bags or as rewards for good behavior during training.
10. Teachers
Teachers are always in need of candy to use as rewards for their students. A few pieces of donated candy can go a long way in keeping kids on track and motivated in the classroom. If you have a teacher in your life, consider donating your extra candy to them.
11. Homeless Shelters
Most homeless shelters accept food donations year-round, and Halloween candy is no exception. The sweet treats can help bring a little bit of joy to people who are going through a tough time.
12. Domestic Violence Shelters
Like homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters are always in need of food donations. Candy can be a welcome treat for women and children who have been through traumatic experiences.
13. Libraries
Libraries often have programs for young children, and they can use candy as rewards or prizes. Donating your extra Halloween candy to the library is a great way to encourage kids to read more.
14. Local Churches and Synagogues
Churches and synagogues are often involved in various community outreach programs, and they can use candy donations to help those in need. Contact your local church or synagogue to see if they have any specific guidelines for candy donations.
15. Your Own Trick-or-Treaters
If you have any leftover candy after Halloween, why not save it for next year? Giving out your own leftover candy is a great way to make sure that no one goes without on Halloween.
Now you may be wondering how you can save it for another year. Here are some tips on how to store your Halloween candy so it lasts:
How to Store Your Halloween Candy
If you decide to keep some of your Halloween candy for yourself (we don’t blame you!), there are a few things you should know about storing it properly. First, make sure that the candy is stored in a cool, dry place. Heat and moisture can cause the candy to spoil, so avoid storing it in the fridge or freezer. Second, sort through your candy and get rid of anything that is discolored or damaged, and keep the candies in an airtight container. This will help to prevent the candy from drying out or becoming stale. This will help to keep it fresh for longer periods of time. Finally, don’t forget to check the expiration dates on your candy before you donate it. Most types of candy will last for several months if they are stored properly, but some may only last a few weeks.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Halloween candy all season long!
In Conclusion
Now that you know where to donate your Halloween candy, it’s time to get started! These ten places are always in need of sweet donations, so don’t hesitate to give them a call. And if you have any leftover candy of your own, be sure to follow our storage tips so you can enjoy it for months to come.
