Got candy? Sell it to a dentist for a good cause

By Nedra Rhone

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Linda King, a Locust Grove dentist, knew the Halloween Candy Buy Back program had grown in popularity last year, she just didn't know how much -- until big boxes of sweets showed up at her office from places as far away as Michigan and Kansas.

"It is really awesome," King said of the program in which dentists buy back Halloween candy and ship it to military personnel overseas.

This year, more than 1,200 dental practices nationwide are registered for the program, compared to 300 in 2007.  As the program has grown, the events have evolved from simple drop-off hours to full-on community celebrations.

King, participating in the program for the third year, plans games and prizes, and local businesses are donating food, discount coupons and more for kids and their parents. Hapeville dentist Joi Freemont will offer an appearance by rap artist David Banner as well as on-site massages for parents and free acupuncture.

The buy back program gained widespread attention when Chris Kammer, a Wisconsin dentist who admits he didn't originate the idea, used his company's public relations know how to gain national press. He also decided that sending the bought-back candy to troops oversees would be a nice gesture. Most participants offer $1 per pound of unopened candy. Some limit how much any one donor can sell. The candy is then shipped to Operation Gratitude, an organization that sends care packages to troops overseas.

King said they will also send toothpaste and, she hopes, toothbrushes along with the candy. "We don't want [the soldiers'] teeth to rot either," she said.

To locate a participating dentist, visit www.halloweencandybuyback.com.