Let’s use the spirit of Halloween to Help Us Be More Human All Year ‘Round

Mom celebrating the Halloween spirit

Halloween is a season of fun, costumes, and candy. Indeed, it has become a favorite of mine. The kids get excited about their costumes, and spending the evening visiting neighbors and receiving candy in response to their declaration of, "Trick or Treat"! All around the country, neighbors open their doors and give candy to anyone who shows up seeking it. Upon reflection, it is a beautiful tradition that embodies the generosity of the human spirit.

I was talking to someone yesterday and commented about how much I have grown to enjoy it and wished that it could last for more than one night.

But what if my wish came true?! Stay with me. I am not suggesting that life become one big extended Halloween party, although it does sound like a lot of fun! I am suggesting that we carry this generosity of spirit beyond October 31st.

Right now, millions of Americans are facing food insecurity, and the recent government shutdown has made things worse. Many families have lost access to SNAP benefits (food stamps), leaving parents scrambling to put meals on the table. Earlier this year, after I was assessed temporary alimony, I worried about how I was going to make ends meet. For the first time in my life, it seemed as if my efforts and my sacrifice wasn't going to be enough.

I was terrified. But, I figured it out because solutions are in my DNA. And, I was able to figure out how to make everything work. If I hadn't been able to do that, I would have been devastated.

And there are some moms whose devastation began yesterday. For them, the question isn't about which candy to buy — it's about whether they can afford groceries at all.

Halloween reminds us how simple acts of giving can bring joy. A piece of candy can light up a child's face. Imagine what a bag of groceries could do for a family in need. The same generosity that drives us to spend on costumes and treats can fuel efforts to fight hunger year-round.

Here are a few ways to turn Halloween's spirit into lasting impact:

• Donate to local food banks, churches or national organizations like Feeding America.
• Support community meal programs that serve families affected by benefit cuts.
• Advocate for policies that protect vulnerable households from food insecurity.
• Start small: even one extra grocery item in your cart can make a difference.
• Practice empathy. The pandemic taught us that we are one in the human spirit that we call America. Keep that at the forefront of your mind and let it guide you. 

Halloween is proof that giving feels good. Let's make that feeling last — because no family should have to choose between paying bills and feeding their children.

This season, let candy be a reminder: generosity is sweet, and it's needed every day.