Local Halloween candy buyback helps troops overseas

LifeSmiles of Sidney is hosting its seventh annual Halloween candy buyback event on Monday.

The event is sponsored by LifeSmiles of Sidney, Hoppens Orthodontics, Western Nebraska Endodontics, Sidney Regional Medical Center and UPS.

According to Cherie Stone, a dental assistant at LifeSmiles of Sidney, they’ve collected 1,000 pounds of candy so far for Operation Gratitude that has helped make care packages for soldiers overseas.

Operation Gratitude annually sends more than 150,000 care packages filled with snacks, entertainment, hygiene, hand-made items and letters to U.S. service members deployed abroad. Their mission is to lift the spirits and meet the evolving needs of the active duty and veteran communities and provided volunteer opportunities for all Americans to express their appreciation to members of the military.

“It’s a great thing for the community to do for the troops,” Stone said. “It really cheers people up and shows that we haven’t forgotten about our soldiers.”

Trick-or-treaters ages 2 to 12 are eligible to trade their candy for $1 for each pound. There is a $5 limit for each child. There will also be drawings for prizes that include a remote control car, a drone, rip stick, Nerf guns and stuffed animals, to name a few. Guests will also receive goodies like apples, stickers and tooth brushes.

Stone said there are typically 80 kids who turn out for the event.

Cards and pictures will be available to be colored and filled out to be sent in the care packages.

They will also accept any donations to help with the care packages.

The all-day event will be held in the LifeSmiles of Sidney office at 1040 Old Post Road from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.