Martial Arts Academy Party Benefits Harmony House

Master Ken Smith, Amelia Sanchez and Sensei Carolyn Smith with a van full of toys and gifts for the residents of Harmony House.

On Saturday, Dec. 15, Santa arrived via fire truck at the Master Ken Martial Arts Academy in Royal Palm Beach to attend the school’s annual holiday party. Santa did not come empty handed — the jolly old elf had a special gift for each of the nearly 100 martial arts students in attendance.

Another highlight of the event was the presentation of holiday gifts for the women and children residing at the Mary Rubloff YWCA Harmony House, a shelter for victims of domestic violence. On hand to accept the huge donation of toys, games, stuffed animals, toiletries and baby items collected by the Five Elements Demonstration Team was Amelia Sanchez, legal victims advocate for the YWCA of Palm Beach County. She thanked the guests for the academy’s support for the past 10 years.

“We truly appreciate your generosity, especially at this time of the year,” Sanchez said. “You have made the holidays much brighter for so many who are in a less-than-ideal situation.”

According to Master Ken Smith, in addition to learning martial arts, the students are encouraged to recognize the importance of giving back to their community, especially in this season of giving.

For more information about Master Ken Martial Arts, call (561) 793-4132 or visit www.masterkenkarate.com.

For additional information on the YWCA, call (561) 640-0050 or visit www.ywcapbc.org.