CMA Foundation Pledges $1 Million To COVID-19 Relief Fund
The fund has been established by the Recording Academy and MusiCares to aid those most affected by the impact of COVID-19.
The Country Music Association (CMA) and its philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation, have announced a pledge of $1 million to the COVID-19 Relief Fund. This is the fund established by the Recording Academy and MusiCares to aid those most affected by the impact of COVID-19.
The newly announced funds will be used to provide support to those in the music industry whose employment has been impacted by the effects of the virus. It will specifically assist in covering mortgage and rent costs, as a way to help keep out-of-work industry professionals in their homes.
“A resource and support system”
“We have heard firsthand the many ways the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted not only our CMA members but the music industry at large,” says Sarah Trahern, chief executive officer of the CMA. “Our goal is to be a resource and support system for those in the music business who are currently struggling, and we’re incredibly grateful for MusiCares’ commitment to serve music industry professionals, especially right now.
“Our business does not exist without these hardworking individuals who make up the touring industry as well as our artists, songwriters and musicians, and we hope our pledge can provide a bit of comfort during these troubling times.”
Tiffany Kerns, CMA Foundation executive director and CMA vice president, community outreach, adds: “As committed as the CMA Foundation is to ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality music education, the CMA Foundation would not be able to operate without the support of the music industry.
“Now more than ever, the music industry needs our support and we seek to help those that have supported the CMA Foundation with their time, talent and resources for so many years.”
MusiCares’ proud history
MusiCares was established as a non-profit organisation in 1989 by the Recording Academy to safeguard the health and well-being of all music people. The charity gives assistance in a wide variety of ways, including confidential preventive, recovery and emergency programmes to address financial, medical and personal health issues. The generosity of donors and volunteer professionals allows the dedicated MusiCares team to work across the US, making sure that the music community has the resources and support it needs.
MusiCares chair Steve Boom says: “We’re very grateful to the CMA for the extraordinary donation to the COVID-19 Relief Fund. The funds will provide much-needed assistance to creators and industry professionals most affected by this pandemic. Country music speaks to the heart and CMA has touched the heart of MusiCares, and the many members of the industry who will benefit from their generosity.”
“CMA is a shining example”
Debbie Carroll, MusiCares vice president, health and human services, notes: “Nashville consistently represents the best of human values and strength of character, always showing up in tough times and when there is need. CMA is a shining example of what makes this city great. Our heartfelt gratitude for their incredible gift that will provide much needed assistance to those struggling in the music community.”
You can support MusiCares here. For music industry members in need of assistance, visit MusiCares.org.
In a related announcement yesterday, CMA Fest, in which some 200 country artists and their fans come together in Nashville every June, has been canceled for 2020 because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Previously scheduled for 4-7 June, CMA Fest will now return on 10-13 June 2021, according to the CMA.
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