Dentist joins Operation Gratitude

SANDPOINT — Kids may not want to give up their Halloween candy, but when it is for a good cause, maybe they will change their mind.

And with the candy buy-back event at Sandpoint Kids Dentistry next week, they can make a little cash, too. The young trick-or-treaters would be joining kids across the country in donating, or selling, their extra Halloween candy to Operation Gratitude, which will then include the candy in care packages to send to U.S service members deployed overseas, veterans, and first responders serving their local communities.

"It saves some teeth and supports the troops at the same time," said Tracy Downing, dental assistant at Sandpoint Kids Dentistry.

In a statement by Operation Gratitude officials, it is noted that while taking candy from children is usually frowned upon, teaching them the value of giving back by donating their excess Halloween candy in support of Operation Gratitude’s care package programs is a win-win for kids, parents, and dentists.

Americans spend an estimated $2.5 billion on 600 million pounds of Halloween candy each year, according to the statement. In 2017, more than 400,000 pounds of candy was donated to Operation Gratitude and distributed to America’s heroes through its care package programs.

"Operation Gratitude’s mission is to thank all who serve, bridging the divide between grateful Americans and the heroes who serve and protect them," said Kevin Schmiegel, lieutenant colonel, USMC (ret.) and CEO of Operation Gratitude, in the statement. "The Halloween candy give-back program provides every American child the opportunity to learn about service, sacrifice and generosity.”

Sandpoint Kids Dentistry are giving kids the extra incentive to help out troops, veterans and first responders by paying each youngster $1 per pound for up to five pounds of candy.

"Hopefully we get a good turnout," Downing said.

Dr. Amanda Caswell-Burt opened Sandpoint Kids Dentistry in May 2017, and this is the second year her office has hosted the candy buy-back event. Downing said about 60 people came last year with almost 20 pounds of candy, and she is hoping to double those numbers this year.

The local event will also include several activities for families, whether they are selling candy or not. There will be games, face painting and temporary tattoos, Downing said. Each person who comes through the door will also be entered into a raffle drawing for prizes, including junior lift passes at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, bowling, a gift certificate for Creations, and more.  

The candy buy-back will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at Sandpoint Kids Dentistry, 1202 N. Division.

Mary Malone can be reached by email at mmalone@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow her on Twitter @MaryDailyBee.