To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Barbie Dreamhouse, Mattel is giving back.
The company has joined Habitat for Humanity in a year-long collaboration to create more opportunities for kids and families to live in a place they can call their home. The Barbie brand is funding 60 projects and activations, including neighborhood revitalization, playhouse builds, critical home repairs, new construction, home preservation, and contributions to the Habitat’s Women Build program. These projects will help families in Canada, Poland, and Brazil, as well as a local family in Los Angeles.
“The only thing as iconic as Barbie is her Dreamhouse, a spectacular home that allows kids to immerse themselves in Barbie’s world, and gives them the room to dream,” says Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and global head of Barbie and dolls, Mattel. “Through our collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, we mark 60 years of our Dreamhouse by supporting families around the world, giving their dreams a home.”
Mattel employees will have the opportunity to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles to work on builds throughout the year, including a new home that will be built near Mattel’s global headquarters.
“At Habitat for Humanity, we know that a safe and decent place to call home makes a difference in the lives of families,” says Julie Laird Davis, vice president of corporate and foundation relations, Habitat for Humanity International. “Home provides a place for children to play and grow, and a place for families to thrive. We are excited to partner with Mattel to help families around the world make their dream of home a reality.”
Last year, Barbie teamed up with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles to add the brand’s signature style to a home in the Watts neighborhood. Designer and DIY duo, Kate Albrecht and Joey Zehr, worked with Barbie to design a bedroom for two young Barbie fans. The Mattel Children’s Foundation also donated 100 Dreamhouse playsets to families within Habitat’s Los Angeles network.
