The Philadelphia Veterans Affairs office announced Wednesday that it is banning candy and sweets from this year’s Halloween parade as it joins First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign to combat childhood obesity.
“Please help us teach our children to make healthy food choices!!” the VA said in an email to employees, The Blaze reported.
The email urged staff to hand out non-food treats like pencils, crayons and rings.
“If you would like to hand out treats during the parade, please give healthy snacks such as pretzels, raisins, granola bars and sliced apples. NO CANDY PLEASE!” the email reportedly said.
The first lady’s “Let’s Move” program has come under heavy scrutiny for allegedly not offering enough sustenance for growing children. Schools have complained they’re hemorrhaging thousands of dollars in food waste, because many kids don’t approve of the bland, low-calorie meals, The Blaze reported.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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