December 18, 2013
Hot 97’s ‘Hip Hop Has Heart Foundation’ Hosts “Lift ‘Em Up†Night of Service
Last week, HOT 97, one of the premiere radio stations for Hip Hop and R&B in the New York tri-state area and the Hip Hop Has Heart Foundation hosted “Lift ‘Em Up,†a day of service that gave those less fortunate a first class experience and dignified evening of gourmet food and holiday entertainment. The night provided an outstanding feast and holiday market for 200 New Yorkers in need. The motivation was simple: “to uplift others and provide nourishment for both bodies and souls, and give back to the community.”
Participants invited by council members Leroy Comrie, Donovan Richards, and Ruben Wills, as well as the Allan Houston Foundation, P.S. 195 Rosedale, P.S. 276 Louis Marshall School, P.S. 45 Clarence Witherspoon School, and the St. Albans School, P.S. 36, arrived at the winter wonderland hungry and excited!
Families gathered on the “Lift ‘Em Up†red carpet to take photos to bring home as mementos, and then stopped by the Fidelis Care Health Insurance and Queens Library tables to pick up free swag and keepsakes. HOT 97’s Ebro Darden welcomed families, and DJs C-Lo and Spynfo spun Hip Hop and holiday beats, as people gathered into the main hall for a delectable banquet of entrées, sides, salad and dessert. Mr. Curtis Farrow was on-hand to provide an inspirational invocation and help announce the dinner service.
“I love helping those that need a little lift in life. Good food can put a smile on ones face!†stated celebrity chef contributor, Chef Jesse.
During the meal, participants enjoyed performances by Akeem Headley, renowned pianist, saxophonist and director of Riffz, the jazz band from Joe’s Music Academy, and Sebastian Mikael. Grammy nominated Hip Hop artist and actor, Ja Rule, joined fellow Queens-native, Rockwilder, singer Shontelle, and R&B singer/songwriter Sevyn Streeter, on the buffet line to help serve food and spend time with attendees.