From November 1st to 3rd, CAFES member Ottawa South Eco-Action Network (OSEAN) will collect carved and intact pumpkins in Ottawa South and distribute them to local farms and food centres. This will help fill the bellies of humans and animals, combating food insecurity and giving carved pumpkins a second purpose. Last year, the OSEAN team diverted more than 2200 pumpkins from the City compost facility and the landfill.
Want to get involved?!
Volunteers are needed! OSEAN is looking for individuals and farms to support the 2024 effort! There are lots of different roles including on-site and online tasks suitable for volunteers of all abilities and ages. Visit https://www.osean.org/pumpkins-for-the-planet to learn more and sign up.
Watch OSEAN's Facebook page and website for information about a family-friendly event on Sunday November 3rd centered around food waste and the many groups who are working to combat food insecurity in our community.
Residents of Ottawa South should keep an eye on our website for the map of collection locations…coming soon!
Don't live near Ottawa South? If you are closer to Stittsville, consider bringing your pumpkins to the Stittsville Pumpkin Parade on November 1st at 6:30 pm (Village Square Park). After the parade and contest, pumpkins not containing paint or glued-on items will be donated by the Eco West Enders to 4 local farms to act as animal food and compost. See the poster below!
