20th anniversary of pumpkin patch arrival to benefit the Navajo Reservation and First Congregational Church of Saugus, UCC, the “Pumpkin Church”

  Pioneer Charter School, Saugus High School, Pop Warner football players and cheerleaders, community volunteers and Aggregate Industries staff – amounting to approximately 75 people – helped to unload 2,500 large and small pumpkins from a truck outside the First Congregational Church of Saugus, UCC, on Saturday morning.

  Event organizer Carl Spencer said pumpkins come from a Navajo reservation in New Mexico – splitting the profits between them and the church. “Another truck is coming in three weeks,” Spencer said. “We charge by weight.”

  Driver Pulod Qodirov said it took him four days’ travel from New Mexico to Massachusetts. He thanked the volunteers who helped to make the 20th anniversary possible.

  Fabi Mitchell said it was her first time pumpkin picking, adding that it was a lot of fun. Her oldest, Jeremiah, plays Saugus Youth Football. A large majority of players and cheerleaders were there to help unload pre-game.

  Pop Warner player John Luca said being with teammates was his favorite part.

  Pop Warner 8U Head Coach Matthew Ragucci said he loved having 12 8U players come out and see the community helping out one another. They plan to join next year.

  Holding the little pumpkins, Saugus High School freshman Sophia Festa said it was exhausting helping but well worth it. She said her arms are hurting from lifting the pumpkins, which come in all shapes, sizes and colors.