Lakeridge’s annual Pumpkin Patch supports multiple causes

New this year are glass pumpkins created by local artists

Lakeridge Elementary will present its third annual Pumpkin Patch and Garden Club Food Drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 20.

New this year, glass pumpkins will be sold to support Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS). Traditional pumpkins also will be sold.

The MIYFS Foundation is showcasing local glass artists’ pumpkins for sale at the pumpkin patch. Artists Joni Johnson and Roberta Wyde are donating 50 percent of proceeds.

MIYFS is the city of Mercer Island’s human services department. The department “touches every member of the community by providing emergency assistance, extending lifelong wellness and fostering strength and resilience for all Islanders,” a press release said.

Lakeridge Garden Club is an opportunity for children to get their hands dirty tending to soil, planting vegetables, caring for and weeding plants and eventually harvesting the food to cook and eat it. As a regular donor to the MIYFS Food Pantry, the garden club is asking everyone to bring non-perishable food items for donation to Lakeridge Elementary on Oct. 20 and all month.

To donate baked goods — such as sliced pumpkin bread, apple cider (store bought), caramelized apple bars, snickerdoodle cookies, Rice Krispie treats — email Nancy Weil at nancyweil@gmail.com. Baked goods will be sold at the event to support Lakeridge PTA.

The suggested donation is $10 per pumpkin. Pumpkins will be available by preorder (due Oct. 17). To preorder (as many as five pumpkins), email nancyweil@gmail.com. Pay at the event or drop off an envelope at the front office addressed to “Pumpkin Patch” with a note that includes name, email and how many pumpkins. The event accepts cash or a check written to “Lakeridge PTA” (write “pumpkin patch” in the memo).