FORT SMITH (KFSM) -- A nationwide campaign to collect sweet treats for U.S. troops located overseas kicks off Friday (Oct. 28).
Kool Smiles organizes Operation Troop Treats each year. All their offices across the country, including their location at Central Mall in Fort Smith, are taking part. Children can stop by and swap 25 pieces of unopened Halloween candy for toys. The candy then heads overseas along with dental kits.
"It makes [the troops] know that we are thinking of them," said dentist Bryan Downing. "It's something special for them so they know we want them to have a sweet day."
The campaign also teaches children about health and dental hygiene by taking some of the candy they would eat and sending it to the troops.
Kool Smiles will be collecting candy until Nov. 5.