As housing prices continue to soar, Habitat for Humanity Victoria is giving local families a lifeline to homeownership, one build – and one gingerbread creation – at a time.
Since 1990, this registered nonprofit has built 34 homes in Greater Victoria, empowering 38 families to step off the rental treadmill and onto the path to a stable future. “We don’t want families to be stuck in a rental cycle,” says Conrad Swanson, Manager of Marketing and Communications at Habitat Victoria. “Through homeownership, families gain stability and the community as a whole benefits.”
A unique model for sustainable housing
Habitat Victoria focuses on affordable homeownership, not rentals. Families enter into no-down-payment agreements and commit to volunteering, whether at events, on build sites or in Habitat’s ReStores. Crucially, no family pays more than 30 per cent of their income on housing, ensuring long-term affordability.
This approach sets Habitat apart. “When Habitat families move in, it’s 100 per cent theirs,” Swanson says. “We’re here to create sustainable housing, not just temporary solutions.”
Demand for these homes has skyrocketed. For Habitat’s coming project, still in its final approval stages, applications have already flooded in. “We’re seeing unprecedented interest,” Swanson says. “It’s startling how many people genuinely need this.”
The Gingerbread Showcase
Supporting Habitat Victoria in its mission is the annual Gingerbread Showcase. Now in its 16th year, and sponsored by Co-op Peninsula, the event is hosted at the Hotel Grand Pacific through Jan.5.
This year’s theme, Through a Child’s Eyes, invites amateur and professional bakers to craft whimsical, 100-per-cent edible gingerbread creations. The public can vote on their favourites with a $5 donation, with proceeds directly supporting Habitat’s work.
“This event really brings so many of us together and boosts the holiday spirit! It’s heartwarming to see everyone, our team and community members alike, getting into the groove of giving back,” says Brandi Natarelli, Community Relations for Peninsula Coop. “We’re always excited to see the creativity,” Swanson says. “It’s a fun holiday experience, but it also sparks conversations about housing challenges in our region.”
Visitors can also become “Gingerbread Ambassadors,” helping greet attendees, answering questions and spreading holiday cheer. Last year’s event drew more than 20,000 visitors, and Swanson is eager to see how this year’s creations inspire.
“It changes your perspective when you see a family move into a home that isn’t ruining them financially,” he says. “You realize the long-term benefits - kids growing up with stability, parents planning for a better future. It’s incredibly fulfilling.”
Beyond providing homes, Habitat Victoria fosters a sense of community and independence, Swanson adds. “When families gain strength and stability, everyone benefits.".
How to help
Whether by donating, volunteering or voting at the Gingerbread Showcase, supporting Habitat Victoria means contributing to giving for homes.
Learn more at habitatvictoria.com/gingerbread. Make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for any updates!