On Dec. 10, Target opened its doors to welcome three dozen Habitat for Humanity families. Each new homeowner and their children received gift cards for a special shopping experience. The event celebrated a year-long partnership between the retailer and the housing organization, which built homes for local families. “We hope it brings just a sense of belonging and awareness and joy,” said Ralph Ikpelue, who manages local outreach programs.

At registers across the store, employees handed out gift cards to parents and children. They loaded their carts with gifts and picked out new curtains, rugs, and wall decorations for their new homes. The store wants to make this a yearly holiday tradition. By combining construction help with shopping support, Target hopes to give new homeowners a solid foundation.

Throughout the year, Target employees rolled up their sleeves and pitched in too. More than 60 team members helped build houses in Charlotte, making the shopping event even more special.

As the shopping event wrapped up, both groups were proud of what they’d accomplished together this year. They’re already looking forward to doing even more next time.