NEWPORT BEACH, CALIF (August 25, 2005) HomeAid, the Building Industry Association's charitable outreach that builds and renovates temporary residences for homeless men, women and children is gearing up for Project Playhouse 2005, the organization's signature fundraiser now in its 14th year.

Every year California's top builders and their respective teams hit the ground running as they work countless hours and donate thousands of dollars in materials and labor to do their part so that Orange County's homeless families are given a chance to turn their lives around.

This year, 10 Southern California builders are on board for HomeAid Orange County's Project Playhouse 2005. As a returning builder for the second consecutive year, the Orange County Sheriff's Department led by nationally recognized Sheriff Michael Carona promises to create another crowd-pleaser. Designed by Lind & Associates architects, this year's entry like the department's 2004 playhouse is being built entirely by Musik Jail inmates.

Joining Sheriff Carona and his team are the 2005 Project Playhouse participants listed below:

• Corman Leigh Communities (HAIE) - Architect: Bassenian/Lagoni
• K. Hovnanian Home - Architect: Bloodgood Sharp Buster
• KTGY Group, Inc. - Architect: KTGY Group
• Pardee Homes - Architect: Bassenian/Lagoni
• Pulte Homes - Architect: Urban Arena
• Richmond American Homes - Architect: Scheurer Architects
• Shea Homes - Architect: Wesslen Construction
• Taylor Woodrow Homes - Architect: JZMK Partners w/Extreme Makeover Home Edition Designers
• William Lyon Homes - Architect: Lind & Associates

To anyone who has seen these elaborate playhouses, it is clear that they are not just simple planks slapped together with fishing line and super glue. Each of the astonishing designs have been created and constructed by some of California's premier architects and builders, that every year manage to make these kid-sized dream homes more impressive than the last.

Approximately 8 feet wide by 10 feet tall, these unique playhouses fully furnished by some of California's top interior designers, feature quality construction and materials such as Italian marble and mahogany and stone; with all materials and labor donated by architects, builders, trade partners, suppliers and building industry associates.

When it comes to amenities and details each of these miniature masterpieces rival custom homes, and can cost between $50,000 and $100,000 to build! Last year's entries included everything from an elaborate replica of the White House; an oversized shoe complete with slide; and a miniature millhouse designed with distressed hardwood, a classic kitchen sink pump handle, and a built-in flat-screen TV sure to keep kids entertained when they're just milling around.

One of the highlights of HomeAid's nine-week exhibit, is Project Playhouse's Open House, a family outing to be held at Fashion Island from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on opening day, Saturday, September 17, 2005. Project Playhouse Open House is the only time throughout the event the public will be able to go inside these fabulous playhouses. Beginning on Sunday, September 18 through Sat., October 22, 2005, the Project Playhouse Village Tours are opened on Saturdays and Sundays only, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the cost is a $5 donation. To acquire one of these whimsical playhouses, plan be on hand October 22nd for Project Playhouse's live public auction and party and make your bid. Packed with food, fun and special entertainment, the California Casual Playhouse Auction Gala is set in a fantasy tent backdrop where hundreds of HomeAid supporters are expected to attend, including registered buyers who will try their luck at a successful playhouse bid.

Tickets are $40, $15 for children under 12, and kids three and under are free. Family4-Packs are $90.00.Ticket price includes admission to the live public auction, dinner and entertainment. To learn how you can become a bidder, call (949) 553-9510 or visit www.projectplayhouse.org

Just north of Orange County, HomeAid Los Angeles/Ventura, is presenting a separate and exciting Celebrity Project Playhouse event on display at the Westfield Century City Center from August 27th to October 8th when six playhouses will be auctioned off at the 5th annual Celebrity Playhouse Auction at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Playhouse viewings at both Orange County and Los Angeles/Ventura County venues begin in August.

The proceeds garnered from the two HomeAid Project Playhouse auctions and the other related Project Playhouse events will benefit homeless men, women and children who otherwise might be living out of their cars or on the streets. For more information about HomeAid's Orange County Project Playhouse contact HomeAid Orange County at (949) 553-9510 or visit www.projectplayhouse.org. For information on the Los Angeles event please call (818) 874-9842 or visit www.projectplayhouse.com