Jefferson City schools donated leftover Halloween candy to veterans and military families

The Jefferson City School District partnered with the Missouri National Guard Family Program for the Halloween candy gives back.

Several schools in the Jefferson City area gave back to veterans with a friendly competition.

Students donate their leftover Halloween candy, which is collected and weighed. Each school, classroom and student compete to collect the most candy as part of the competition.

The Missouri National Guard Family Program has collected all donations and will distribute the candy to National Guard units across the state.

National Guard Armories also have family centers that bring candy to VFW posts and assisted living facilities for veterans.

A press release noted that candy will go to Columbia Veterans Affairs, as well as other veteran nonprofits and service organizations.

On Thursday, November 7, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Jefferson City School District Wellness staff stopped by South Elementary School to discuss their candy donations.

The candy weighed a total of approximately 176 pounds.

If students brought 10 pounds of candy, their classes were rewarded with an extra recess.

“We invite the kids to enjoy their Halloween candy,” explains Dawn Crader of Jefferson City School District Wellness, “and then donate their leftover Halloween candy to charity, earning a break.”

Crader explained that giving back the candy is a win-win for everyone because it gives students more time to exercise while showing their appreciation for the military.

Chris Waterfield is the hospital services coordinator at the Truman VA Hospital. He was thrilled to see so many students willing to give back to those who serve.

“We tell them (veterans) how the candy came about and how the kids get an extra break for bringing in the candy,” Waterfield said. “It puts a big smile on their face.”