"At a recent conference, I had that rare but powerful experience of feeling completely safe while eating, a moment that people with food allergies don’t often get to take for granted. My allergen was clearly labeled, the food was thoughtfully prepared, and I didn’t have to second-guess every bite. I could actually focus on the conversations and connections, not the quiet calculation of risk that usually follows me to every shared meal. But then, I met someone who didn’t have that same experience. Their allergen wasn’t labeled or considered. They looked over the options, scanned for answers, and ultimately made the decision to leave and find food elsewhere. No scene. No frustration. Just a quiet pivot away from the group so they could eat safely. It broke my heart a little. Because for people with food allergies, this is still so common. The feeling of being on the outside looking in. The subtle isolation that comes from something as simple as a shared lunch. And too often, it’s brushed off as an inconvenience rather than a real barrier to inclusion. That moment reminded me why I care so deeply about the work we do at FARE. In our office, food isn’t just about nutrition or convenience, it’s about safety, trust, and care. Catered meals are planned with allergies in mind. People double-check labels. My colleagues know how to respond if something goes wrong. And most importantly, I don’t feel like a burden, I feel like I belong. But that’s not the norm. Yet. There’s still so much work to do to raise awareness and push for change, at conferences, in workplaces, and anywhere food is shared. This Food Allergy Awareness Month, I hope you’ll join me in supporting FARE’s mission to create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. No one should have to choose between safety and connection. Not at lunch. Not ever.” This Food Allergy Awareness Month, your gift to FARE will be doubled up to $50,000, thanks to a generous food allergy family. Donate here: https://www.foodallergy.org/donate (fb)

Food allergy inclusion in the workplace isn’t just thoughtful, it’s essential. Everyone deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported, especially when something as everyday as a team lunch can be a risk. This Food Allergy Awareness Month, we’re working toward real change! Thanks to a generous food allergy family, all donations to FARE are being doubled up to $50,000 through May! Let’s make this month one of impact, education, and advocacy. Donate and explore resources to make your workplace more inclusive: https://bit.ly/42X4wWW (fb)