SARASOTA, FL – In the wake of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that ravaged Haiti on August 14, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presented “Help for Haiti: A Benefit Concert” featuring WBTT Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs and friends. The programs – which took place at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 29 – featured uplifting songs to raise funds and hope for the people of Haiti. Approximately 280 attended the programs, which took place at WBTT.
The 90-minute concerts featured soulful versions of popular songs such as “Lean On Me,” “We Are The World” and “Put A Little Love In Your Heart.” In addition to Jacobs, favorite WBTT artists Syreeta S. Banks, Christopher Eisenberg, Donald Frison, Michael Mendez, Jai Shanae and Henry Washington performed.
Through ticket revenues and checks hand-delivered to WBTT, nearly $12,800 was raised. Proceeds will benefit the Bradenton-based organization Project Light International (P.L.I.), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing emergency first responders, nurses and other medical professionals as well as ambulances and helicopters to help rescue and treat those in need. These vital emergency services are not currently available in many Haitian communities.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti has impacted more than 1.2 million people, killed at least 2,200 and injured more than 12,200, with thousands hospitalized and hundreds still not accounted for. The situation was further complicated by Tropical Depression Grace, which brought heavy rain and sustained winds to Hispaniola just days after the earthquake, hampering search and rescue efforts.
Donations to support the relief efforts in Haiti are being accepted via P.L.I.’s website: helppli.org.
About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and builds self-esteem in youth of color. For more information, please visit westcoastblacktheatre.org.