We’re at roughly the midway point of December, and right on schedule, we’re totally, completely, and absolutely holiday party’d out. So as we count down the remaining days until everyone turns their brains off, it’s time to shift the attention from office and company holiday parties to helping out those in need.
And around the Boston area this week and weekend, there are a few ways to make a difference.
Thursday night at the Middle East, the Central Square rock club hosts a benefit for those affected by the recent 10-alarm Cambridge fire, which displaced 57 families two weeks ago. Performing are the James Montgomery Band, Tigerman WOAH, Lady Pills, STL GLD, and others. The cover is $15 and it’s an all ages show.
That same night over in Somerville, Anngelle Wood hosts her fifth annual DCF Kids Fund Spectacular Gift Drive at ONCE Ballroom. Sure, this can be classified as a holiday party, but it’s done for the kids and you can rock for a good cause along to the sounds of Airport (we premiered their new single yesterday), Dark Wheels (members of Tribe, OldJack, and Eddie Japan), and all-star band Hail Santa!, which features familiar faces from Goddamn Draculas, Stars Like Ours, Hey Zeus, and others.
“We are collecting gifts — not just toys — for area foster families,” writes Wood online. “Please bring unwrapped items to include toys, books, art supplies, electronics, sporting equipment, hoodies, hats, gloves, musical instruments, gift cards. Suggested donation of $10 goes toward room cost and additional gift cards. Everyone welcome.”
On Sunday, Great Scott hosts a benefit for Planned Parenthood, co-organized by Yoni Gordon, and featuring performances by Gordon and his band the Goods, Great Lakes USA (pictured up top), Fucko, and Planet of Adventure. The cover is $10.
“I want to raise as much [money for Planned Parenthood] as I can, and I want to do that by playing the most exciting, entertaining, uplifting, soul reviving, rock and roll extravaganza that I can possibly muster — and I can muster quite a bit,” says Gordon. “Although I am a nobody, and God damn good at what I do, and I am ready to do for you, for me, for Planned Parenthood, for the ACLU, in hospitals on Christmas Eve and anywhere else where music can foster a greater sense of community.”
True that.
Additional info for each of the benefits can be found in the flyers below.
