Santa’s Village, the official home of Santa Claus, is located thousands of miles away in Finland. It is a magical place where people go to meet Santa and share their holiday wishes.

This year, thanks to Collin County Habitat for Humanity and the Shops of Willow Bend Mall in Plano, Texas, North Texans won’t have to travel across the world to experience a winter wonderland. Santa’s Village will be inside the mall, complete with cabins and homes adorned in Christmas decorations and open to the public for viewing.

On October 25, the American Red Cross North Texas Region got to decorate one of the homes inside Santa’s Village. Red Cross North Texas Region Director of Volunteer Services Dominica McCarthy led dedicated Red Cross volunteers and employees as they rolled up their sleeves and decorated the playhouse, turning it into a home fit for Santa and friends.

“This is a new event for the Red Cross, and I am super excited!” Red Cross Senior Volunteer Services Specialist Nikki Bufford said.

The day was full of smiles as everyone came together to make the perfect cabin. Marissa Corsiga, who became a volunteer with the Red Cross two months ago, was happy to be involved.

“I enjoy being able to get out in the community knowing I am helping others,” she said.

Collin County Habitat for Humanity built and donated the cabin homes that will make up Santa’s Village to spread the Christmas spirit and support the community. They will stay on display until they are actioned off, with the proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that started in 1976 and is in more than 70 countries. Its mission is to improve the living conditions of community members. With the help of the American Red Cross North Texas Region, Habitat for Humanity is not just spreading holiday cheer to North Texans; it is helping Santa and the community have a home for the holidays!