Agape Dance Academy made a big donation to children battling cancer following fundraiser performances of The Nutcracker.
Melanie Useldinger, director of the academy, presented a check for $1,950 to Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Services on Jan. 10. The money was raised during four performances of the classic Christmas ballet on Dec. 16-17 at Henry J. Mellow Center for the Performing Arts in Watsonville. Guest artist Kimberly Marie Oliver from the San Francisco Ballet performed as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Jacob’s Heart offers children battling cancer and their families emotional and financial support. Terra Crowl, family support specialist with the organization, wrote in a news release that Jacob’s Heart provided more than $364,000 in financial support and more than 2,500 hours of personal support to families throughout Santa Cruz County and beyond.
“At Jacob’s Heart, we envision a community where every child with a serious or life-threatening condition has a strong, supported and informed family empowered to fully participate in their care,” Crowl wrote. “We strive to inspire compassionate action within local communities, to create a safety net of support for the unique needs of each child and family. With the support of the Agape Dance Academy, Times Publishing and many other local community organizations, Jacob’s Heart has managed to provide 125 families with essential assistance and holiday cheer during this past holiday season.”
Get more information about Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Services at www.jaconbsheart.org. Get more information about Agape Dance Academy at www.agapedance.com.
