Grand Rapids, Include These Food Items With Trick or Treat Candy

October 31st is one of your kids' favorite times of the year, and is simultaneously your dentist's least favorite day of the year. Everyone dresses up and goes door to door (or trunk to trunk) to amass a boatload of candy that kids will either eat in one weekend or will attempt to save until they see their stocking hanging from above the fireplace.

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However, this year things are looking somewhat different. While candy will still be the number one thing kids want when they yell "Trick or treat!", parents might be thinking about what will happen when the clock strikes 12.

That is when the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are scheduled to end due to the government shutdown. Approximately 1.4 million people around the state rely on this program, and although Michigan's attorney general has sued to prevent this from happening, it remains unclear whether this will be effective.

Ideas for Halloween!
byu/ALittleEtomidate inDetroit

Thankfully, there is a simple thing you can do to provide for someone who may be struggling: give out non-perishables with your candy. Including basic items like ramen cups, microwave macaroni and cheese, or granola bars, is suitable for school lunches. Additionally, Go-Go Squeeze apple sauces are cost-effective and can be bought in bulk.

READ MORE: Community-Owned Grocery Store Could Open in Grand Rapids Soon

These aren't meant to replace the candy your kids want, but they could be a helpful addition for the adults walking with the kids. Since the government shutdown has no end in sight, finding ways to help one another where we can is crucial. No tricks this time!