LA MIRADA, CALIF. —Biola University students will host a Haiti benefit concert attracting the Los Angeles and Biola community on Tuesday, March 30, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. using the arts to bring relief to the hurting people of Haiti.

As relief organizations rushed volunteers to Haiti for disaster relief hours and days after the earthquake hit in January, Biola University students were just returning to campus for classes. With the people of Haiti heavy on their hearts, students led prayer groups and contributed financially through outside organizations. Nearly two months later, students have not forgotten the tragic situation half way around the world and have rallied together for a benefit concert in hopes of raising funds for earthquake relief through the arts.

The concert reflects Biola’s Haiti initiative, launched March 15, created by Vice Provost for Academic Development and Effectiveness, Michael Anthony, who boarded a plane just days after the disaster to assist with relief, and search for the best way Biola could help. The result was Biola’s Haiti Initiative Grant Program in partnership with Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif. and their PEACE Relief ministry. Through this grant program, students and faculty can apply for financial support towards strategic plans to assist with disaster relief directed towards serving the people of Haiti in a manner that is Christ honoring, sensitive to their plight, and is self-sustaining. Selected projects will receive up to $5,000 after the grant proposal deadline of April 16, 2010.

The benefit concert, Harmony for Hope, will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Biola’s Crowell Hall and will feature student music groups such as The King’s Men and Chamber groups. Biola’s dance team Xopoc will perform and art exhibits will be on display. Anthony will also speak at the event and share his heart for Haiti.

Money raised at the benefit concert will be distributed to the people of Haiti through the Haiti for Hope Fund, founded by Biola alumnus Louima Lilite.

Visit the Harmony for Hope concert Facebook page.