It’s not the homes Habitat for Humanity usually tries to build to help working families in need, but for the 10th year their gingerbread showcase is on and is looking to raise funds to keep helping those on the South Island.
It’s the organization’s premier fundraising event, last year they raised over $51,000 and had over 25,000 visitors.
There are 24 creations on display ranging from Fisgard Lighthouse to the B.C. Legislature and even Harry Potters Burrow.
“All the funds raised for this event go toward our build program, this year we are directing all the revenue from this event to our single family home that is being built in Central Saanich,” said Director of Fund Development and Communications Joanna Vernao.
“There’s no place like home” is this year’s theme, last year’s was “Celebrating Canada!”
“It started out as a gingerbread fundraiser… with gingerbread cookies and then the idea just got greater and more elaborate over the years,” said Vernao.
Amateur and professional bakers were encouraged to let their creativity flow at the event. All of the homes have to be made entirely from edible ingredients.
“It takes a lot of hours and you can see in the papers, like one took two months.” said one young boy.
“This is our second year coming. It’s really fun to see what creativity comes out with a little flour and some sugar,” said an attendee.
Visitors are encouraged to make a donation and vote for their favourite for the coveted “people’s choice” award. The showcase is open daily at the Parkside Hotel from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Jan. 6.
Habitat for Humanity Victoria is a charity that helps families build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership. Founded in 1990, they have built 22 homes locally and served 26 families.
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