LEESVILLE, La.--In the event of inclement weather, the Night of Praise and Worship will be moved to the Fairgrounds Arena in Leesville at 276 H. M. Stevens Blvd. (off of LA Hwy 8 west), just outside of the city limits of Leesville.

In the meantime, donations, almost $2,000 so far, have been pouring in for the purchase of handicapped playground equipment for the parks in Leesville, well ahead of the upcoming Night of Praise and Worship set at Polk Outdoor Theatre for 7 p.m. this Friday, May 22.

Those who are unable to attend the event but would still like to make a donation can do so online at www.gofundme.com/playinthepark. Donations can also be made by mailing a check to City of Leesville, 101 W. Lee Street, Leesville, La. 71446. Please indicate the account number (102-4314-000-00000) in the memo field and/or "playground equipment donation."

All donations are tax deductible. The City will be happy to provide you with a receipt or a letter to that effect.  Please make your request known with your donation, and a letter will be provided to you. If you've already made your donation and would like a receipt, please contact Tammy Sharp by calling 337-238-2444.  

The event, which organizers hope to be an annual one, was created by Darrell Woofter and Jill Leonard of Jillybean's Studio in Leesville. Woofter said his granddaughter, who is confined to a wheelchair and cannot join other children in play, inspired him to make sure that all children can enjoy local playgrounds and feel included. He told Leonard of his idea and together the two decided to raise money for the cause.

The event is free of charge, but a love offering will be collected.

All proceeds will go toward the purchase of handicapped playground equipment for the City of Leesville Parks.

Performers will include Darell Woofter, The Old Man Band, Ben Pollock, Shawn Carter and many others including Sign Language to Music Artist Andrea Elise. Please make sure to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

The Louisiana Slow Rollers Car Club will also be on hand to show not only classic cars but a number of motorcycles.

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