This year’s Fall Fair at St. Thomas Lutheran Church takes place on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and offers a fun day of fellowship, food and shopping.
Located at 17700 Old Cutler Rd. in Palmetto Bay (directly across from the village library), the church’s annual event features local craft vendors, homemade baked goods, a rummage sale, silent auction and a hotdog and hamburger café. Fair proceeds will benefit Camillus House, Habitat For Humanity and Lutheran Services Of Florida.
Started more than 30 years ago, the fair began with crafts made only by the women, but now the event organized by the Women of the Church includes outside craft vendors. The entire congregation now participates in the production of the fair, according to Diana Orme, one of the fair’s organizers.
“The cafe is run by Kim and Dennis Derr who are St. Thomas’ liaisons for Habitat for Humanity,” Orme explained. “All the proceeds from the cafe go to participate in Habitat’s Faith House or Thrivent House.
Dennis and Kim say while it is a lot of hard work making the funds to participate, it is so worthwhile and fulfilling to work side by side with the recipient of the Habitat House.
“It is humbling to get to know others who are in need and be able to help them achieve their dream of home ownership. With this year’s fair proceeds we hope to be able to support our fifth Habitat House.”
The rummage sale, always a popular attraction, includes household goods, furniture, children’s and baby items, clothes and assorted knickknacks.
Annemarie Roberts, another member of the Women’s Group, explained that the proceeds of the Fall Fair are used to support a variety of charitable causes.
“One of our favorite events is a Christmas party with gifts for local children in need,” Roberts said. “We also provide health kits used in world relief efforts, and we make donations to Habitat for Humanity.”
Vendors or others may call 305-232-1227 or send email to StThomasChr@aol.com for information.
