Pike County residents have always been “big” supporters of Habitat for Humanity, and Fred Johnson’s hoping that hearts and appetites will be as giant as ever this weekend.

The Pike County Habitat for Humanity will hold its 10th Annual Big Giant Cookie Sale Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church on Elba Highway.

If residents prove as generous as usual, Johnson, Habitat’s executive director, said the local chapter will be half way to building a house — “just from cookies.”

“Up until now, we’ve raised about $24,000 with the cookie sales,” Johnson said. “What these people come out and give really does make a difference.”

Both bakers and buyers are needed for this weekend’s event. Johnson said anyone who wants to donate baked goods to the event can drop off their treats at the church between noon and 8 p.m. Friday or even Saturday morning.

“Some people bring in their stuff Saturday morning and turn around and purchase something else,” he said.

But, while there will be cookies of all shapes and sizes, that won’t be all the Big Giant Cookie Sale has to offer.

In fact, one of the most famous dishes are Barbara Patterson’s bourbon balls.

“Ms. Patterson will make her famous rum balls, and you have to get there early if you want those. They always go fast,” Johnson said.

Patterson has been baking for the event since it first started.

“One of the great things about the cookie sale is it brings so many people from so many areas together to support it,” Patterson said. “It’s great to see so many people support the efforts of building housing in Pike County.”

Johnson said Patterson, who is a member of St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church and a former Habitat board member, is responsible for finding the location of the cookie sale.

While the tasty treats are a big draw to the sale, there will also be entertainment from Jim Wadowick and Gene O’Masta, who will play Christmas music on their accordions.

The Big Giant Cookie sale is Habitat’s largest fundraiser of the year, but Johnson said he’s working toward growing the Gospel concert, held now for the last two years in January or February.

If there are leftover cookies from the sale, they will be donated to the Salvation Army food bank, so nothing will go to waste.