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Marion Strawberry Festival Is Sweet For Habitat For Humanity

Kayla Gilligan, 11, serves strawberry shortcakes at the second annual Strawberry Festival in Ocala. Gilligan, who attends Howard Middle School, says volunteering for Habitat for Humanity is fun, knowing that it helps toward making a difference in the community she lives.
Kayla Gilligan, 11, serves strawberry shortcakes at the second annual Strawberry Festival in Ocala. Gilligan, who attends Howard Middle School, says volunteering for Habitat for Humanity is fun, knowing that it helps toward making a difference in the community she lives.

Ocala had its second annual Strawberry Festival in Marion County on Saturday. It started last year as a way to benefit the local Habitat for Humanity, the festival expanded this year. "This has been it for my family," said Afiya Jackson-Young, who volunteered at the event. The proceeds from the event will go to help fund the Strawberry House in Belleview, where Jackson-Young will work on and eventually live thanks to Marion County's Habitat for Humanity. The event included activities for all ages: live entertainment, bounce houses, face makeup, car shows and lots of delectable strawberry treats. Jackson-Young looked around at the crowd from the Habitat for Humanity booth and smiled. She is thankful for everything the program has done for her since December. "I hope we can continue to raise money through Habitat for Humanity so that more homeowners can see a future in Marion County."

Briana is a reporter for WUFT News and can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing bri.rose561@gmail.com.