The Orange County Children’s Therapeutic ARTS Center will hold a fundraising event in support of their new Community Food Bank on Thursday, Sept. 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This event includes live art demonstrations, entertainment, raffles, refreshments, and a wide variety of auction items. Many important members of the local community are also expected to attend.

The ARTS center helps young people, especially those of limited financial means or in foster situations, by offering a program that combines academics, the arts, and creative therapies. The objective is to inspire and empower youths to realize their full potential despite their current situation.

To this end, the instructors, staff, and board members at OCCTAC offer their own talents to help in this endeavor, with backgrounds in music, education, therapy, and art. OCCTAC was founded by Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami in 2000 following the death of her parents. She has been recognized by numerous entities, including the Orange County Register and People Magazine, for her efforts and contributions to bring the arts to underprivileged families.

However, kids who are hungry often have trouble paying attention during class — who can appreciate the joy of the arts when their stomach feels like a black hole? So OCCTAC decided to kick-start a new long-term Community Food Bank at their center so kids can focus on the music instead of worrying about their next meal.

OCCTAC is located at 2215 N. Broadway in Santa Ana. For more information, please call 714-547-5468.