ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – A Nob Hill nonprofit could be shutting down after facing financial hardship. The issues started when they opened their location four years ago.
The Black Cat Community and Cultural Center has been providing an artistic space for families since 2020.
“I love being here because all of these people are like my family. They’re so kind, so nice, and so creative and so talented,” said 15-year-old Presley Piatt, a dancer at Black Cat.
Story continues below
The center provides dance, theater, music, and other programs at low prices and most for free. Community members said the center has helped them through hard times.
“My dad passed away during covid time, so it was like a hard time for me. I feel like coming here is like letting all that go and then having the support of trey and Vanessa really helped me overcome a lot of things,” said 18-year-old Natalia D’Elia, a dance teacher and student at Black Cat.
Problems started at the center four years ago when they first opened in the 80-year-old Hendren building. They have dealt with maintenance and upkeep problems, which have impacted ability to pay rent.
“The biggest issue that we have back rent that we need to pay, and we also need to get this facility going forward to have some funds that will get it to place where we can get that sustainable after we had such hardships,” said Eugene Pickett, the director of the Black Cat.
Pickett said their performances and shows are paused for now, hoping the community helps keep this beacon open. Black Cat has already raised $5,000 of the $16,00 needed. You can visit their Facebook to learn more about them.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 – Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.