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Chris Rourke, croark@cherryroad.com
As prices rise, so does the cost of building a home.
So local nonprofits hope their annual fundraiser will help fill the gap as they continue to build homes for those in need.
Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County will hold a Festival of Trees silent auction on November 18-19 to raise funds for its mission. The event will be held on November 18th from 5-9pm and November 19th from 9am-3pm at the First United Methodist Church at 505 W. Marvin Ave. in Waxahachie .
Since 2001, Ellis County’s Habitat for Humanity has built 14 affordable homes for needy locals.
This organization typically builds one house per year. After the family selection process begins in the fall, with families selected and housing needs determined, volunteers will begin building homes around January, with completion around November.
Ellis County’s Habitat for Humanity is working on housing in Ennis and should be ready by Thanksgiving.
The organization receives the majority of sponsorships and donations from Festival of Trees events, according to Habitat for Humanity officials in Ellis County. And this year, giving is more important than ever.
“Inflation has caused us to use less stuff when building homes,” said Tanitia Marvels, an officer of Humanity Habitat in Ellis County. “For example, the house may not have a garage. The family still has to pay the mortgage, so we want to make sure it is affordable. I don’t want to be tied down, so I’m trying to adjust.”
Marvels said the organization is working on the Ennis home.
According to Marvels, nonprofits are asking for donations of more appliances such as microwaves, refrigerators, ovens and stovetops than before.
Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County receives donations from local businesses such as Ennis State Bank. Ennis State Bank donated $20,000 to help the organization build a home in Ennis.
The Tree Festival showcases many decorated Christmas trees donated by the community. Also included is a series of Christmas-themed items up for auction, gift certificates, tickets and gift cards to local businesses, visits with Santa, activities for children, live music, and a few surprises.
Item will be ready for pickup at 5pm and must be paid for and picked up by 6pm Saturday.
Going forward, Marvels said the organization has identified four eligible families to receive visits from the Family Choices Committee.
“Beginning in 2023, new families will be selected to build affordable homes in Ellis County,” Marvels said.
For more information, visit ellishabitat.org.
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