October 4, 2016
JFA to Raise $1M to Help Musicians Rebuild
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — For 27 years, the Jazz Foundation of America has quietly helped to rebuild the lives of musicians snagged by disasters like the unprecedented flooding that swamped Louisiana in August.
On Tuesday, the foundation announced a pledge to raise $1 million for musicians in immediate and ongoing need following this flood, which damaged more than 60,000 homes, displaced 20,000 people and contributed to 13 deaths in the state.
“Louisiana is the birthplace of American music — everything we’ve listened to for the last 100 years has its roots in jazz and blues — and these musicians give us the soundtrack to our lives, so it is imperative that we do all we can to offer our support,” said Wendy Oxenhorn, the foundation’s executive director.
Those affected by the flooding need help even more now that waters have receded, she said.
“That’s when the hard work begins,” Oxenhorn said. “So, we’re inviting those who love this music and these fearless and resilient musicians to join us in this effort to get them back on their feet.”
