Photo: Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch Counties

PARK CITY, Utah — In a creative approach to financing affordable housing, Habitat for Humanity trading wood 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 twist to their serious mission of making homeownership accessible property.

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

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“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. “This sums up the real-world results of families working with Habitat to purchase their own home.”

Although entry to view the festive exhibition is free, a online auction which will take place December 5-7 will allow supporters to bid on trees and houses. A separate auction featuring holiday gifts will take place December 2-5, and a Park City ReStore pop-up store will offer in-person seasonal shopping.

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

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

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By: Laura M.

Contact: [email protected]

Laura attended the University of Washington and earned a degree in economics with a concentration in political science. His career spans journalism, politics, wellness and entrepreneurship. Having lived in mountain towns for the past 20 years, she now calls Park City, Utah home. You can find her enjoying everything Park City offers, from mountain biking to Pilates to powder days.

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