Merced Bariatric Weight Loss Support Group meets the 15th of each month -- unless that date falls on a weekend, in which case its meets the Friday before the 15th -- at 7 p.m., at 315 Mercy Ave., third floor, classroom A. Call (209) 261-6333.

Gingerbread workshops

The Merced County Library will hold two Gingerbread House workshops for children ages 4 and up at noon Saturday and 4 p.m. Tuesday at the library. This is a free workshop and each child needs to bring a bag of assorted candies for decorating. Call (209) 385-7643 to register.

Christmas open house

ATWATER -- The Atwater Historical Society will host its annual Christmas Open House from 1 to 4 p.m. on Dec. 16 at The Bloss Home Museum, 1020 Cedar Ave.

Health, fitness classes

Merced College Community Services will offer health and fitness classes starting in January. It will have strength and stretch, fitness boot camp, Aikido, Zumba, belly dance fitness, yoga and many more classes. For more, call (209) 384-6224 or go to www.mercedcommunityservices.com.

Christian shelter open

JMJ Maternity Homes, a faith-based 501(c)3, provides homeless pregnant women with shelter, resources and support services in a nurturing Christian environment. The maternity program and residents program

provide shelter and support services to facilitate prenatal and postpartum health, counseling, case management, food, clothing and more. Call (209) 769-7092 or visit www.jmjmaternityhomes. com.

Free legal services

Central California Legal Services Inc. and Merced County provide free legal services to seniors. Clients must live in Merced County, be 60-plus years old and a U.S. citizen. Appointments are available in Dos Palos, Livingston, Los Banos, Atwater and Merced. For more, call (209) 385-7550.

If you would like to have your event announced in the Around Town Column, send your information to Connie Hodges at least 10 days prior to the event, at chodges@mercedsunstar.com. Items run according to space available.