The St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway is one of the most exciting charity events in the United States. Every year, thousands of people purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a stunning, custom-built home while supporting the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. But one question often comes up: does the St. Jude Dream House come furnished?
What is the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway?
The St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway is more than just a raffle—it’s a powerful fundraising initiative that has been changing lives for decades. Here’s a closer look at its history, mission, and impact.
History and Mission
The St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway began in 1991 with a simple yet ambitious goal: to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The hospital, founded by entertainer Danny Thomas in 1962, is dedicated to treating and curing pediatric catastrophic diseases, including cancer. Families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food, thanks to generous donors and initiatives like the Dream Home Giveaway.
How the Raffle Works
Each year, custom-built homes are donated by local builders and sponsors in cities across the U.S. These homes are then raffled off to raise money for St. Jude. Participants purchase tickets—usually priced at $100 each—for a chance to win the home and other prizes. The proceeds go directly to supporting the hospital’s mission of saving children’s lives.
Impact on Families
The funds raised through the Dream Home Giveaway have a profound impact. They help cover the costs of groundbreaking research, treatments, and family support services. By participating, ticket buyers not only have a chance to win a dream home but also contribute to a cause that brings hope to countless families.
The Home: Design, Features, and Style
The St. Jude Dream Homes are not just houses—they’re masterpieces of design and craftsmanship. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these homes so special.
Stunning Designs
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Each Dream Home is custom-built by local builders and designed to reflect the latest trends in architecture and interior design. From modern and contemporary styles to rustic and boho-inspired aesthetics, these homes are tailored to appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Key Features and Amenities
St. Jude Dream Homes are known for their luxurious features. Common amenities include:
- Open-concept layouts
- Gourmet kitchens with high-end appliances
- Spa-like bathrooms
- Spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets
- Energy-efficient systems and smart home technology
Unique Touches
What sets these homes apart are the unique design elements. For example, some homes feature custom artwork created by St. Jude patients, adding a personal and emotional touch to the space. Others include outdoor living spaces, such as patios and landscaped gardens, perfect for entertaining.
Does the St. Jude Dream House Come Furnished?
Now, let’s address the big question: does the St. Jude Dream House come furnished? The short answer is yes, most of the time. Here’s why.
Fully Furnished for the Giveaway
In most cases, the St. Jude Dream Homes are fully furnished and decorated as part of the giveaway. This means that when you win, you’re not just getting an empty house—you’re getting a beautifully staged home that’s ready to move into.
Why Are the Homes Furnished?
There are several reasons why the homes are furnished:
- Showcasing the Home: Furnished homes are more appealing during open house tours and virtual walkthroughs.
- Sponsorships: Many furniture brands and interior designers partner with St. Jude to showcase their products and talents.
- Enhanced Appeal: A fully furnished home creates a sense of excitement and makes the giveaway even more enticing for participants.
Examples from Recent Years
For instance, the 2023 Denver St. Jude Dream Home was fully furnished with stunning pieces provided by Furniture Row, a major sponsor. Similarly, the 2024 homes are expected to follow this tradition, with local designers and brands contributing to the furnishings.
What’s Included in the Furnishings?
If you’re lucky enough to win a St. Jude Dream Home, you might wonder: what exactly is included in the furnishings? Let’s break it down.
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Room-by-Room Breakdown
Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Living Room: Sofas, coffee tables, rugs, and accent chairs
- Kitchen: Bar stools, dining sets, and sometimes small appliances
- Bedrooms: Beds, nightstands, dressers, and bedding
- Bathrooms: Decorative accessories, mirrors, and storage solutions
- Study/Home Office: Desks, chairs, and shelving units
Brand and Sponsor Highlights
Many of the furnishings come from well-known brands, such as Furniture Row and Pottery Barn, as well as local designers. These sponsors often provide high-quality, stylish pieces that complement the home’s design.
Special Touches
Some homes include unique items, such as artwork created by St. Jude patients or custom decor that reflects the local community. These details add a personal and meaningful touch to the home.
Can Winners Keep the Furnishings?
While most St. Jude Dream Homes come furnished, the policies regarding furniture ownership can vary. Here’s what you need to know.
Policies and Variations
In some cases, the furnishings are included as part of the prize, meaning the winner gets to keep everything. However, in other instances, the furniture is staged for display purposes only and is not part of the giveaway. It’s always a good idea to check the official rules for the specific home you’re entering to win.
Examples and Advice
For example, the 2023 Denver home included all furnishings, while some past homes have only included select pieces. If you’re unsure, reach out to the giveaway organizers for clarification.
Why Furnished Homes? The Benefits for Winners and St. Jude
Furnishing the Dream Homes benefits everyone involved. Here’s how.
For Winners
- Move-In Ready: Winners can start enjoying their new home immediately without worrying about buying furniture.
- Emotional Value: The furnished home feels complete and welcoming, making the win even more special.
For St. Jude
- Increased Appeal: Furnished homes attract more ticket buyers and open-house visitors.
- Showcasing Sponsors: Sponsors have the opportunity to display their products and designs, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.
Tour the Dream Home: What to Expect
Visiting a St. Jude Dream Home is an unforgettable experience. Here’s what you can expect during the tour.
Open House Experience
During open house events, visitors can explore the home, admire the furnishings, and imagine themselves living there. The beautifully staged rooms create a sense of excitement and anticipation.
Virtual Tours
For those who can’t attend in person, virtual tours and media coverage provide a glimpse into the home’s design and features.
Comparing St. Jude Dream Home to Other Charity Home Giveaways
FeatureSt. Jude Dream HomeOther Charity Homes
Furnished Usually Yes Varies
Designer Involvement High Varies
Sponsor Partnerships Strong Varies
Move-in Ready Yes Sometimes
Unique Decor/Art Yes (e.g., patient art) Varies
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