While the holiday season seems far off, Community Housing & Resources (CHR) is jingling those bells now by unveiling a decorating contest that will unite local businesses and community members, while supporting affordable housing.
From Nov. 21 through Dec. 9, participating Sanibel and Captiva businesses will hang the greens and light the lights for the Business Holiday Decorating Contest — a new CHR fundraiser this year.
“CHR has a strong partnership with local businesses, many of whom employ hard-working people who call CHR communities ‘home,’” Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale said. “We’re excited to take that relationship to the next level in a fun and festive way.”
Voting cards will be available to the public to select their favorite decorated businesses in various categories and collect stamps for each business they visit. They will include Best Overall Display, Best at Night (Use of Lights), Most Creative, Best Island-Focused Theme, Best Storybook Theme and Funniest. Once residents and visitors earn six stamps, they can turn in their card for a chance to win a holiday gift basket.
The cards will be available from CHR and participating businesses by the time the contest begins.
The voting deadline will be Dec. 8, with all cards due to CHR.
“CHR wants this contest to be a community-wide celebration of the holidays and one another,” she said. “We’re looking forward to a fun and uplifting event.”
Any local business is welcome to participate; sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Proceeds from the sponsorships will support CHR’s programs that provide affordable housing to local working families and older adults.
The deadline for sponsors is Oct. 30.
For more information, contact CHR at 239-472-1189.
Community Housing & Resources is at 2340 Periwinkle Way, Suite K2, Sanibel.