Habitat volunteers give away mountain chalets
...in playhouse size, of course

Calgary, AB – Five playhouses worth $10,000 each were recently awarded to five lucky families after a draw at Sunridge Mall, in Northeast Calgary.

  "It was the final day of Habitat for Humanity Calgary’s largest annual fundraiser," said Alexandra Zalec, Marketing Director of Sunridge Mall. "We select five winning ballots and phone the winners right away. It’s a great New Year’s present for these families, and you can often hear ecstatic children in the background."

  The five 10th anniversary – Centennial edition playhouses included Little Bow Lodge, The Alberta Habitat, Wild Rose 1905, Iron Horse Station and the Longview Bunkhouse. In 2005, close to $90,000 was raised for Habitat For Humanity, which will build one home for a Calgary family in need.

  Co-Project Manager and Volunteer, Jack Dickson said this year the Playhouse Project celebrates 10 successful years.

  "More than $900,000 has been raised through the work of 800+ volunteers; 66 playhouses have been built and raffled off; and, 10 low-income families put into homes," he added.

  "Delivery day on January 7th was a huge celebration, as all of the winners’ friends and relatives came out," said Dickson.

  "Everyone stares in awe as a crane lifts the playhouse over the back fence (some of them are very heavy) and into their own backyards. When you see the smiles on those kids’ faces, it makes it all worthwhile."