Fears About SNAP, Rethink Your Candy Bowl
Halloween has always been a time of creativity, community, and connection. From the tiniest toddler dressed as a pumpkin to the teenager who swears this is their “last year” trick-or-treating, it’s a night where we open our doors and share a little sweetness with our neighbors. But what if, this year, we opened our hearts—and our treat baskets—a little wider?
As we approach November 1st, families across the country are bracing for the expiration of SNAP emergency benefits. For many, these benefits have been a lifeline, helping stretch tight budgets through tough months. When those extra funds disappear, millions of parents will face harder choices about what to put on the table. And as Christians, especially as Episcopalians guided by compassion and community care, we have an opportunity—right here, on Halloween night—to make a small but meaningful difference.
Rethinking “Treats”
When we think of Halloween treats, our minds immediately go to the familiar: chocolate bars, lollipops, gummy bears. And while there’s nothing wrong with a little sugar, this year might be the perfect time to think outside the box—literally—and add something new to your candy bowl.
Instead of (or alongside) the usual sweets, consider handing out shelf-stable snacks or small meal items that could make a real difference to a hungry child or struggling parent. Think of this as feeding both body and spirit—a ministry of kindness disguised as Halloween fun.
Some ideas to include in your treat basket:
- Ramen noodle packs (especially the smaller single servings kids can prepare easily)
- Protein or granola bars
- Microwavable mac and cheese cups
- Single-serve pudding cups or fruit cups
- Small boxes of cereal
- Chips or pretzels in individual bags
- Applesauce pouches
- Juice boxes or shelf-stable milk cartons
These are inexpensive, easy-to-store, and safe to hand out. Many come in bright, appealing packaging that feels just as festive as candy.
Why It Matters
It might not seem like much—a single pudding cup or a pack of ramen—but to a child facing an empty pantry, that small gesture can mean the world. It’s a reminder that their community sees them, values them, and wants to help.
For parents struggling to make ends meet, especially as SNAP benefits change, these “treats” can bridge the gap between meals. They can also bring dignity and relief to caregivers who might feel embarrassed or anxious about asking for help.
As Episcopalians, we believe in the sacredness of every human being and in our shared responsibility to care for one another. Halloween can become a surprising moment of ministry—a night when generosity is expected, and where we can model creative compassion.
A Theology of the Table
Throughout Scripture, food is more than nourishment; it’s a symbol of grace, community, and divine love. Jesus didn’t just feed people spiritually—He fed them physically. He broke bread with strangers and sinners alike. He multiplied loaves and fish not to show power, but to show care.
Halloween gives us a chance to embody that same spirit. When we fill our treat bowls, we can also fill the gap between abundance and need. This is a small way to extend the Eucharistic vision—that all are welcome at the table, that there is enough for everyone, and that even the humblest meal can become holy when shared with love.
Making It Work in Your Neighborhood
You don’t need to go overboard or spend a fortune. Even setting aside a small portion of your treats for this purpose can make an impact. Here are a few ideas to help you put it into practice:
- Create two baskets – one with candy, one with nonperishable snacks. Label them clearly so kids (and parents) can choose.
- Package with care – make sure all items are factory sealed and allergy-safe. A cheerful note like “Happy Halloween! Take what you love!” can add a friendly touch.
- Add a prayer or blessing tag – if you feel inspired, include a short, gentle message such as: “You are loved. You are seen. May this small snack remind you that your community cares.”
- Think beyond Halloween night – leftover items can be donated to a local food pantry, shelter, or backpack program that supports kids with weekend meals.
Accessibility and Inclusion Matter Too
At the Disabled Episcopalian, we know that accessibility and inclusion are part of our ministry every day—and Halloween is no exception. For many children and families with disabilities, food allergies, or sensory sensitivities, Halloween can be a night filled with both excitement and anxiety.
If you’re handing out treats this year, consider ways to make your home welcoming and safe for every trick-or-treater who comes to your door. Keep pathways clear for kids using mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers. Avoid flashing lights, strobe effects, or sudden loud noises that could startle or overwhelm someone with sensory sensitivities.
Also, keep an eye out—or take part yourself—in the Teal Pumpkin Project. Homes with a teal pumpkin signal that non-food treats (like stickers, glow sticks, or small toys) are available for children with food allergies or medical dietary restrictions. It’s a simple but powerful way to make sure every child gets to experience the joy of Halloween safely.
And here’s another small but important thing: if a child doesn’t say “trick or treat” or doesn’t make eye contact, please don’t take it personally. That child might be neurodivergent, nonverbal, or simply shy. Inclusion means remembering that not every child expresses joy or gratitude in the same way—and that’s perfectly okay.
Finally, remember that disabled people are often on the giving side, too. If you’re someone who lives with a disability, relies on SNAP benefits, or is on a fixed income, know that your participation matters deeply. Whether you share candy, snacks, or simply a warm smile and a blessing from your porch, you’re offering something holy. Compassion isn’t measured by what we give—it’s reflected in how we give.
Turning a Fun Night into a Faithful One
Halloween is fun—it should be! But it can also be meaningful. When we think outside the candy bowl, we can transform a simple night of costumes and sugar rushes into something deeper.
We can turn our porches into places of compassion. We can turn our candy bowls into signs of grace.
And we can turn one night of giving into a lasting reminder that small acts, offered with love, are never wasted.
So as you stock up for Halloween on Friday, grab that bag of mini Snickers—but maybe grab a pack of pudding cups or granola bars too. You never know whose day (or week) you might brighten.
Because sometimes the sweetest treat of all… isn’t candy. It’s kindness.