What kind of pumpkins can be donated?
Any edible pumpkin that has not been carved can be donated. We cannot accept carved pumpkins. Please do not drop off any carved pumpkins.
Are Jack-o-Lantern pumpkins edible?
Yes, while there are many articles on the web indicating how the most common halloween pumpkin variety (Jack-o-Latern) is not as sweet, it is still edible and nutritious
Are some pumpkins edible and others decorative?
While all pumpkins are edible, gourds are decorative. It is not always easy to distinguish between the two. Here’s a link that might help. Additionally, some pumpkins require more effort to cook (eg Jack B Little). If you have the option to pick any pumpkin for donation, please ask your grocer for a sweet pumpkin. Here’s a good list of pumpkins varieties
Who are we donating the pumpkins to?
In 2022, we donated our first 100 pumpkins to EHP, an East Palo Alto based program that provides assistance to individuals facing hardship.
In 2023, we donated to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley
I want to expand this program to my city, how can I use 100Pumpkins.org platform?
Please find an entity that will be willing to accept pumpkins on Nov1st and volunteers that will be willing to coordinate the donation. We can then easily update the website to include your city into the program.
Why does this matter?
Every year ~ $1 Billion of pumpkins are purchased in the US around Halloween. A vast majority of these ends up being thrown away. We strive for a sustainable use of the pumpkins. If you cannot use the pumpkins at home, consider donating them so others might be able to.
Are you looking for any volunteers?
Yes, for every city that we have a program in, we’re looking for volunteers that will help with accepting drop offs, collection, donation. This will typically require a few hours on the weeks leading up to Halloween and likely a significant number of hours on Nov 1st.
I am a High school kid, can I still volunteer?
Most certainly, we expect to have many volunteer opportunities. Reach out to us and we can share the opportunities available in your city