The Pumpkin Patch & Festival Story
Pumpkins with a Purpose
Every October, our church yard is filled with fresh, beautiful pumpkins. But our pumpkins are more than just decorative and delicious - they are serving a much higher purpose. From the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico to the farmer's flock in November, all proceeds from our Pumpkin Patch and Festival are given in grants to local ministries to fund their activities.
Navajo-Grown Pumpkins from New Mexico
Our pumpkins are grown in cooperation with the Navajo Nation, and the patch employees 700 Native-American people during the harvest season, and their full-time off season staff are also Native-American. From the patch in Farmington, New Mexico to the farmer's flock in November, all proceeds from our Pumpkin Patch and Festival are given in grants to local ministries to fund their activities.
Brought in by Independent Truckers
Our beautiful Navajo-grown pumpkins are transported from New Mexico by independent truckers. These independent truckers move the pumpkins all around the country to pumpkin patches throughout the USA.
St. Matthew Pumpkin Patch & Festival Ministry
St. Matthew has been selling pumpkins for thirty-two years during October, and on the second Saturday of October, we have a great Pumpkin Festival with all kinds of items for sale. All of the proceeds from these sales go to fund our Pumpkin Grants, which provide needed resources for ministries that serve Eastern Oklahoma County. So, it's fun for the whole family, and it helps people in need too!
St. Matthew Pumpkin Grants
Pumpkin Grants are given each year to fund local ministries. Applications are due by January 1 of each year, and must be sponsored by a St. Matthew member. Over $20,000 was granted last year to the Mid-Del Food Pantry, Mission Mid-Del Master's Market, and Mobile Meals. Purchasing a pumpkin really does help others!
Animals LOVE Pumpkins!
Each year, some of our pumpkins go unsold, but they are still enjoyed by others! It's true - animals LOVE pumpkins. Local farmers come to pick up the pumpkins that are left in November, and farm animals get to enjoy a special treat. Pumpkins are their candy.
