WATCH SPELL IT OUT NOW!
Food allergies are a life-threatening condition that know no race, gender or economic status. However, lack of awareness, education and preparedness are disproportionately affecting underserved families and communities of color where there is a higher percentage of dangerous reactions as well as higher costs of emergency care.
Filmed at P.S 142 in New York’s Lower East Side, “Spell It Out” is a public service announcement starring actual students who all have food allergies themselves. The video is aimed at school children and their caregivers that addresses several key concepts about food allergies that are often misunderstood.
1. Food allergies are real.
Food allergies are serious and life-threatening – different from an intolerance, which is an uncomfortable digestive condition but not life-threatening.
2. Anyone can be allergic to any food at any age.
Food allergies are not simply a passing childhood condition. In fact, recent findings tell us that 1 in every 10 adults have food allergies, too. And, despite their reputation, peanuts are not the only food to cause a serious reaction – you can be allergic to almost any food.
3. Food allergies should be monitored by a doctor.
If you experience symptoms after eating, it’s important to talk to a doctor or nurse. They can confirm a diagnosis, teach patients how to manage their food allergy, and help them get epinephrine – the only medicine capable of slowing or stopping a life-threatening reaction.
MEET THE ORGANIZATIONS WHO MADE SPELL IT OUT
Allergy Strong
For Iman, who survived domestic abuse, providing safe food for her food allergic children without resources was nearly impossible. With little guidance from her doctor and an ocean away from home, Iman was left with few resources to manage this dire and life-threatening situation – until AllergyStrong stepped in. AllergyStrong serves patients and families that find themselves in need of assistance – whether through personal circumstances or natural disaster. We work directly with families like Iman’s to help guide them through a difficult time as well as with organizations like schools, social services, and others invested in underserved communities to help best support families with food allergies.
End Allergies Together
End Allergies Together is focused solely on funding the most promising research to accelerate treatments and cures for the growing food allergy epidemic affecting 32 million Americans and over 220 million people globally. EAT was launched in May 2015 to help bridge the significant gap in research funding. In four years, EAT has funded eight studies across eleven institutions and launched a $1 Million Anaphylaxis Grand Challenge to be awarded in early 2020.
Elijah-Alavi Foundation
Change for Kids
Change for Kids creates opportunities for kids to overcome inequity by providing critical supports, experiences, and access so kids in New York City public schools can reimagine their possibilities. Together, we provide and manage a mix of resources, including leadership support; academic enrichment and engagement programs; volunteers; corporate sponsors; school community support; and custom programming.
Red Sneakers for Oakley
Red Sneakers for Oakley was established by Robert and Merrill Debbs after the death of their 11-year-old son Oakley due to a fatal allergic reaction to nuts. Oakley loved his red sneakers and the family decided to use them as a powerful symbol for their commitment to educating and advocating for food allergy awareness. Through its multidimensional digital media marketing, Red Sneakers Day awareness program, and powerful community partnerships, Red Sneakers for Oakley is determined to keep kids safe.
