The JCC Pumpkin Patch was started by Jessica Durka and her husband as a way to give back after her own personal experience with the Juravinski Cancer Centre. Currently in its 6th year, it has raised almost $250,000 which has directly funded lifesaving equipment at the centre.
Through donations from local farms and community members, the patch offers pumpkins of every size, as well as décor, porch packages, and additional gifts like pumpkin hats and bracelets, with all proceeds supporting the Juravinski Cancer Centre.
“We couldn’t do this without our community.” – Jessica Durka
This purpose-driven pumpkin patch is made possible by the incredible volunteer support, like team member Kim Smith, as well as pumpkin donations by many area farms including the Sloot family who are also providing a space this year to host the patch. It is made so successful by the incredible community support, people visiting from near and far to pick the perfect pumpkin in support of this worthy cause.
“It’s a privilege to be able to host the JCC Pumpkin Patch this year! It’s a cause that is all too familiar to us and to be able to help bring more awareness and support to this facility is something that will hopefully help many others along the way. We love farming and we love Waterford so to be able to host the pumpkin patch is something that feels natural and exciting for our family farm. We look forward to helping with a wonderful cause and are happy to be part of it.” – Andrew and Brooke Sloot
