FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP – Students from Freehold Township High School raised $7,802 for the Embrace Kids Foundation during the third Dance For The Kids (FTK) event that was held on June 10.
The Embrace Kids Foundation exists to lighten the burden, maintain normalcy and improve the quality of life for families whose children are facing cancer, sickle cell and other serious health challenges. The foundation addresses the spiritual, emotional and financial needs of patient families in New Jersey and the New York City metropolitan area, according to its website.
Freehold Township High School sophomore Logan Feldman was the chairperson of Dance FTK who worked with her school community to make the event a reality for its third annual dance-a-thon.
“I never knew how much an organization could supply support, friendship, finances and a lifetime of love to families in need until I met the people who work for the Embrace Kids Foundation,” Logan said.
“Children are able to (not think about) their illness as the members of the foundation hang out with them and put a smile on their face. This has inspired me tremendously to always strive to make incredible bonds, make people smile, aim to make a difference and continue the tradition of Dance FTK at our school.
“I have been fortunate to grow up in a family where doing charitable work is part of our everyday practice and not something out of the ordinary. My parents have always taught me to do good for those who are less fortunate,” Logan said.
The June 10 event took place over Zoom and welcomed Armaan Saxena, manager of family services for the Embrace Kids Foundation.
“The funds (that were raised) were needed more than ever as we have not been able to host events in person and fund-raise like we usually do. With the donations Freehold Township High School raised, Embrace Kids was able to hold our first in-person function for the families which was a barbecue with a water slide bounce house,” Saxena said
Dance For The Kids was sponsored by Carpets to Go, Pete Pallucci of Vanderveer Tire and Service Center, Tender Smiles for Kids, Colors To Go, Wow 1-Day Painting, My Treat Truck and Brace Place.
