Public invited to the Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Village Kick-Off Event at OBU, Dec. 9

December 1, 2023

Santa, hot cocoa and cookie decorating, plus holiday sounds provided by students of the OBU Division of Music await visitors of the kick-off for the inaugural Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Village set for 6 p.m., Dec. 9 on the oval of the OBU campus.

Funds generated from the Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Village event will go toward supporting the organization's projects in Pottawatomie County.

“The initiative aims to blend the festive atmosphere of the holiday season with the goal of ensuring secure and affordable housing for working-class families,” said April Grant, community engagement coordinator for Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity.

Local leaders will join the celebration to cast their vote for the best gingerbread house with a trophy going to the winning company.

Donations will be gathered to provide for some of the needs of those in the community. Guests are encouraged to bring contributions such as diapers and canned good for the United Way of Pottawatomie County, as well as toys for Cops for Kids.

According to event coordinators, guests participating in this magical Gingerbread Village will be transported to a whimsical world of sweet treats, where holiday music fills the air and festive decorations abound.

“The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Village is not just about indulging in the delights of the holiday season,” Grant said, “It’s a compassionate endeavor that aims to make a difference in the lives of people in Pottawatomie County. By participating in this event, guests are directly contributing to the construction of safe and affordable homes for working-class families. The support ensures that more families can experience the warmth and security of a place they can call home.”

Fundraising photos at the event with the Grinch, Rudolph, a Snowman and Santa Claus will be taken by local photographer Alisha Norton with a portion of each package going to Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity.

This event is also an opportunity to learn more about the work of the Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity does in the community.

“The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Village is a celebration of unity, compassion, and the holiday spirit,” Grant said. “It's a chance for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, enjoy the magic of the season, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those less fortunate. So, come join us in this festive adventure. Your visit and support make all the difference in the world to those in need, and together, we can make this holiday season truly unforgettable.”

For those unable to attend the kick-off event, the Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Village will be available for a drive-thru experience the following week through Dec. 16. A second trophy will be presented at 8 p.m., Dec. 16 for the People's Choice Awards. Drive-through guests will receive a QR link to vote for their favorite gingerbread house.

For further information contact April Grant at april@rrhabitat.org or by phone at (806) 470-0986.

About Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity
Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity has built over 55 homes in their continuous effort to bring support and housing independence through homeownership. The Norman ReStore is open to the public and provides funding for the organization by selling gently used furniture, appliances, and household items. The funds generated from the ReStore and donations help serve families in Cleveland and Pottawatomie counties. We build and repair homes for low-income families. The families benefiting from the homes are leveraging their own sweat equity, by working alongside Habitat to realize their dreams of homeownership. Provided with interest-free home loans, these families are able to use their hard-earned income to provide for other needs, making them more economically independent. Habitat also supports the community by building ramps for aging individuals and families with disabled members and provides community revitalization projects.