Church of the Nazarene Opens Annual Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser

The Church of the Nazarene in North Fort Myers has opened its annual pumpkin patch as a community fundraiser, offering a variety of pumpkins for sale each day except Sunday. The event, held at the church’s location on Bayshore Road, runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing residents with a festive way to prepare for Halloween.

Pastor Van Garner explained that the church has partnered with a local company for the past seven years to supply the pumpkins. The company delivers a truckload of pumpkins, which the church sells at a set price. The church reports daily sales, and the company provides a percentage of the proceeds, with the remainder going back to the provider. This arrangement allows the church to raise up to $6,000 annually without financial risk.

Garner noted that the event operates on an honor system, acknowledging that some pumpkins may be stolen, particularly at night. Despite this, the church has encountered moments of unexpected honesty, such as last year when a man returned pumpkins he had taken, expressing guilt for his actions.

The pricing for each pumpkin is determined using a measuring tape provided by the company, which has dollar amounts instead of inches. This method ensures the cost reflects the size of the pumpkin. Additionally, the church has set up a hay couch for families to take photos, creating a tradition for some to document their children’s growth over the years.

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