Habitat for Humanity raises housing dough with gingerbread builds

Photo: Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch Counties

PARK CITY, Utah — In a creative twist to fund affordable housing, Habitat for Humanity is trading lumber for sugar and nails for icing — at least temporarily.

Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch Counties is incorporating gingerbread house competitions into its annual holiday fundraiser for the first time, adding a whimsical touch to their serious mission of making homeownership attainable.

The edible edifices will be featured alongside decorated trees at the organization’s third annual “Celebrating Home Holiday Tree Show” on December 6-7 at Utah Film Studios. The event has drawn a diverse group of amateur architects, from local high school students to professional firms, all putting their own spin on the seasonal structures.

“This event highlights the idea that home is about family, tradition, being together, and feeling safe and warm,” said Shellie Barrus, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch Counties. “That encapsulates the real outcomes of families who work with Habitat to buy a home of their own.”

While admission to view the festive display is free, an online auction running December 5-7 will allow supporters to bid on the trees and houses. A separate auction featuring holiday gifts will run December 2-5, and a Park City ReStore pop-up boutique will offer in-person seasonal shopping.

Proceeds support Habitat’s Homeownership Program, which helps full-time Summit County workers purchase homes in the community where they work. Participants must demonstrate housing need, qualify for an affordable mortgage, and contribute “sweat equity” hours to the program.

The show runs Friday, December 6 from 1 – 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Utah Film Studios, 4001 Kearns Boulevard.