The Erie Women’s Fund has awarded a $100,000 grant to Dafmark Dance Theater to support its Dafmark Creative Arts Center (DCAC), a program serving over 100 children annually who live in public housing at the John E. Horan Garden Apartments.

The grant was announced at Thursday's Erie Women’s Fund Grant Reception and will help expand DCAC’s reach, providing afterschool and summer programming that includes painting, drawing, sewing, theatre, dance, and music. Local artists and educators regularly work with students to develop their talents and creativity.

“Dafmark’s Creative Arts Center has already proven what an incredible impact they are able to have for students’ educational outcomes,” said Allison Hodas, chair of the Erie Women’s Fund. “They are poised to provide the holistic support needed to help break the cycle of poverty.”

In addition to arts programming, DCAC offers homework help, one-on-one tutoring with certified teachers, and healthy snacks to support overall well-being. Students also have access to cultural enrichment opportunities such as live theatre outings and a chance to participate in DCAC’s annual youth theatre production and art show.