Habitat for Humanity builds homes for those in need, and the organization offered a “sweet” take on its charitable work recently.

On Thursday evening, the Buzzards Bay Habitat for Humanity held its 4^th annual gala and silent auction. For the first time, the gala featured a free gingerbread house contest.

“The gingerbread houses fit perfectly with our mission of building homes for people,” said Robin Ragle-Davis, president of habitat’s board of directors.

The houses were auctioned off alongside other items donated by area businesses. All proceeds benefited the group.

Held in the Marion Music Hall, the gala featured fine food, drinks and music by pianist Al Russo and area choirs.

Habitat’s Executive Director Christine Lacourse said about 100 people arrived and that about 80 groups stepped forward to donate auction items.

Students in Habitat for Humanity’s Umass Dartmouth chapter volunteered as well. The students welcomed guests and served hor d’oeuvres.

Chapter President Caitlin Moakley noted the student group helps locally and away. During spring break, chapter members will travel to North Carolina for five days to help build a home.

“Instead of helping ourselves we go out into the community and elsewhere to help others, that’s what I like about it,” said Moakley.

Habitat builds affordable homes for families in need. Homes are built with volunteer labor and donations of land, money and materials, including “sweat equity” from the families as they help with the build.

Business that donated to the event include: Harriet’s Catering, Lindsey’s Family Restaurant, Martignetti Distributors, Artisan Kitchen and Dunkin Donuts of Wareham. Cape Cod 5 Cents Savings Bank, Eastern Bank, Prospect Mortgage, G.H. Dunn Insurance and Martignetti Distributors sponsored the event.

The winners of the gingerbread contest in the adult category are: Dick and Dana Anderson, Coleen Dompierre and MaryAnn Hayes. Youth category winners are, Hannah Powers and the St. Gabriel's Youth Group.