Wildfire Relief for Music Workers in L.A.: Resource Guide
As of Tuesday, January 7, a series of devastating wildfires have swept through the greater Los Angeles area, inflicting significant harm to both lives and property. This catastrophe has particularly affected music industry professionals, with nearly 180,000 residents facing mandatory evacuation orders. Tragically, the fires have claimed at least five lives and resulted in the destruction of thousands of buildings, leaving many in dire need of assistance. In response, various music industry organizations are mobilizing to provide critical relief to those affected, showcasing the community’s resilience and support during these challenging times.
In the following sections, you will find a comprehensive list of music organizations that are actively offering relief to industry workers in Los Angeles. This resource is being continuously updated to include new initiatives and announcements aimed at supporting those impacted by these catastrophic wildfires.
(For real-time health alerts, evacuation updates, and shelter information, please refer to L.A. County’s emergency website here.)
MusiCares: Essential Support for Music Professionals Affected by Wildfires
The Recording Academy’s philanthropic initiative, MusiCares, is stepping in to offer crucial financial assistance to music professionals who have been impacted by the wildfires in the Los Angeles area. A representative from MusiCares stated, “MusiCares acts as a vital resource for music professionals affected by the fires. We provide short-term disaster relief, including $1,500 in direct financial support and a $500 grocery card. This assistance aims to cover immediate expenses such as hotel stays, food, and essential supplies incurred during evacuation. Furthermore, MusiCares can extend additional support for individuals facing severe impacts, including home damage, medical issues, or damaged musical equipment, as well as those needing longer-term relocation assistance. Eligibility for MusiCares support requires at least five years of employment or credit on six commercially-released recordings. To request assistance, please contact mu*************@mu*******.org.”
In collaboration with The Recording Academy, MusiCares announced on Thursday, January 9, the launch of a dedicated Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort aimed at supporting music professionals impacted by this crisis. The initiative commenced with a substantial joint donation of $1 million, reflecting the commitment of these organizations to assist those in need.
We Are Moving the Needle Microgrants Wildfire Relief Fund: Supporting Creators in Need
Launched on January 9, the We Are Moving the Needle Microgrants Wildfire Relief Fund is specifically designed to assist early and mid-career producers, engineers, and creators who have suffered losses of studio space or essential equipment due to the wildfires. This fund aims to provide timely support to those creators who are pivotal in the music industry. Individuals looking to apply for assistance or those wishing to contribute to this vital fund can do so by visiting the appropriate link here.
Entertainment Community Fund: Financial Assistance for Arts Professionals
The Entertainment Community Fund is offering emergency financial assistance to eligible performing arts and entertainment professionals who are currently facing unexpected critical needs. This support can cover basic living expenses, including health care and housing costs. According to the fund’s website, applicants affected by the L.A. wildfires will need to upload specific documentation. If access to these documents is limited, applicants may submit a blank file initially. Upon receipt of the application, the fund will collaborate with applicants to finalize the necessary paperwork. For more information on how to apply for relief, please click here.
Backline: Mental Health Support for Musicians
Backline, a nonprofit organization focused on mental health, is actively sharing resources for musicians in Los Angeles through social media platforms. They are also offering their own support services to ensure that those affected know they are not alone during this challenging time. “Backline is here for you,” the organization stated on Instagram. “You can reach out to us through our case submission form, and a dedicated Case Manager will contact you to help you secure the long-term support you need. For immediate assistance, please contact the Disaster Distress Hotline, available 24/7, at 1-800-985-5990.”
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund: Aiding Musicians in Crisis
The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting musicians and music industry workers in need, has established a natural disaster relief fund specifically for individuals in Los Angeles County and surrounding areas affected by the wildfires. Applications for relief are currently open, and the funds raised will be directed towards covering losses of music-related equipment, medical expenses related to the fires, and other essential living costs. This initiative is crucial in providing immediate aid to those who have lost so much.
For those wishing to contribute or apply for assistance, please head over to the designated webpage to donate or fill out an application.
