An Oakville dentist's office has come up with a creative way to dissuade kids from eating too much Halloween candy this year - by offering them a sweet deal: cash for both trick-or-treaters and to a local charity.
The creative offer comes from SmileGrove Dental on Wyecroft Road here in Oakville. For anyone willing, the dentist will trade candy for cash over any time in the next week, accepting extra candy and paying out money to both the donors and to the Kerr Street Mission.
A press release says that "This November, SmileGrove Dental is transforming leftover Halloween treats into a force for good with its Candy Buy Back charity program. Oakville's young trick-or-treaters are invited to trade their excess candy for a little pocket money, all while supporting families in need through Kerr Street Mission."
"We all love the magic of Halloween—the costumes, the excitement, and yes, the treats," says Dr. Karen Man, chief dentist at SmileGrove Dental. "But too much candy can play tricks on young teeth."
"Our program is a fun and impactful way to keep the joy alive, promote dental health, and extend kindness to our neighbours in need."
Here's how it works: from November 1-8, 2024, SmileGrove Dental will host the Halloween Candy Buy-Back Program at their office, offering $5 for every pound of candy (though only up to 3 pounds per child).
For every pound of candy they collect, the clinic will make a matching $5 donation to Kerr Street Mission, a local charity dedicated to assisting families facing economic challenges.
If you're really willing to trade your sweet, sweet candy, parents are "kindly asked to schedule their visit before arriving", which can be done at the clinic's website.
"It's more than just a candy swap; it's about teaching our kids the value of giving back,” added Dr. Man. “Every piece of candy turned in is a step toward a healthier smile and a stronger community."
Buybcaks will take place at SmileGrove Dental, at 250 Wyecroft Rd, Unit 8, here in Oakville.