Pictured: Nate Jacobs taken by Sorcha Augustine

 In the wake of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that ravaged Haiti on August 14, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe will present “Help for Haiti: A Benefit Concert” featuring WBTT Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs and friends. The programs – which will take place at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 29 – will feature uplifting songs to raise funds and hope for the people of Haiti. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti has impacted more than 1.2 million people, killed nearly 2,000 and injured nearly 10,000, with thousands hospitalized and many still not accounted for. The situation has been further complicated by Tropical Depression Grace, which brought heavy rain and sustained winds to Hispaniola early this week, hampering search and rescue efforts.

The 90-minute program will feature touching and 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 will also perform. “Friends of mine in Haiti have been impacted by the earthquake,” said Jacobs, whose friend – a co-founder of P.L.I. – lost his wife and three children in the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti and founded the organization after that disaster. “I felt compelled to respond and try to help in the best way I know how – through music.”

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.

Concerts take place at WBTT (1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota). Masks will be required. Tickets are $27 (including ticket fees) and are available through WBTT’s website, westcoastblacktheatre.org, or by calling the Box Office: 941-366-1505. Donations can also be made at the P.L.I. website, helppli.org.

Pictured: Nate Jacobs taken by Sorcha Augustine