MusiCares’ response to Hurricanes Rita and Katrina
The hurricanes of 2005 threatened to destroy the heart and soul of the greater Gulf Coast region: its rich and vibrant music community. MusiCares understood the effects of these disasters in a unique way. Since our inception 16 years ago, it has been our mission to assist music industry people facing unexpected crises. We met this particular crisis with the authority and insight that comes with experience in assisting thousands of music industry clients through the years. On September 1, 2005, we established the MusiCares Hurricane Relief Fund with an initial donation of $1 million dollars in partnership with The Recording Academy to aid music industry individuals affected by the storms. This fund was also the recipient of numerous fundraising efforts, large and small, which gave us the financial resources necessary to assist an unprecedented number of applicants who applied for help.

MusiCares’ initial assistance provided funds for food and clothing, gasoline and other transportation expenses, crucial cell phone service, relocation costs, medicines and other critical supplies. Since September 1, 2005, MusiCares has disbursed over $3.5 million in financial assistance for basic needs, as well as instruments and other supplies to more than 3,500 individuals directly affected by the disasters.

Over a year later, we realize that the essential need for survival relief has passed, but many affected by the disasters are still struggling. In response to those circumstances, MusiCares is serving individual clients through our regular application process.

Should you or a fellow musician affected by the hurricanes have a financial, medical or personal crises, please contact one of the four toll free phone lines listed below to inquire about assistance. MusiCares is committed to providing aid to those in need as quickly as possible and all inquires are confidential. MusiCares provides assistance for basic living expenses, doctor, dentist and hospital bills; addiction recovery treatment and sober living costs through our MAP Fund, psychotherapy, treatment for AIDS or hepatitis C and other critical illnesses.

West region – 800-687-4227

South Region – 877- 626-2748

North Region – 877- 303-6962

MAP Fund – 888- 627- 6271

To make a donation to MusiCares Hurricane Relief efforts click here.

Music Rising — Phase I
As part of its overall hurricane relief efforts, MusiCares has been a lead partner of Music Rising, a campaign launched to replace musical instruments lost or destroyed in the Gulf Coast hurricanes. Launched in November of 2005, Music Rising has provided instruments and/or gear to over 2100 professional musicians located in 34 states across the country.

Music Rising was formed by U2’s The Edge, legendary producer Bob Ezrin, Gibson Guitar, Guitar Center Music Foundation and MusiCares. Many musicians affected by the disasters of 2005, were left with little more than the clothes on their backs. Without instruments or gear, thousands of music people were left without the ability to perform and therefore, without the ability to generate income for themselves or their families. Music Rising’s goal has been to help rebuild the musical heart and culture of the Gulf Coast region by providing the necessary tools for musicians to continue their beloved craft.