As Tamaki Makaurau continues to battle adverse weather conditions, an emergency relief fund has been set up to help those in desperate need in the music community.
Following the terrible floods that battered the region several weeks ago – and before Cyclone Gabrielle was even beginning its approach – MusicHelps set up the Emergency Flood Relief Fund.
If you or anyone you know in Auckland’s music community requires urgent assistance, or has experienced significant loss or damage as a result of the weather conditions, applications are now open for emergency grants of $500.
“We have all witnessed the massive destruction as a result of the flooding events in the past week. We know there are many in our music whānau who have suffered severe damage and huge loss,” as MusicHelps writes on its website.
These grants are available to those living in an area where a State of Emergency has, or was, declared by local authorities. The online application form is available here. All decisions regarding grants will be made at the discretion of the trustees of the MusicHelps Trust and will be final.
Some important things should be noted: applications are limited to one per household, while evidence of how the flood has impacted you personally must be provided (pictures, repair quotes, paperwork etc).
And even if you’re not eligible for a grant, MusicHelps has a Wellbeing Service available 24/7 online. Anyone can get in touch with the charity by calling its support line (0508 MUSICHELPS) or sending a message via its official website.
MusicHelps is a registered charity committed to using the power of music to change the lives of New Zealanders in need. The charity offers music therapy, music education programs, as well as music programs for those in prisons or aged care. As its website states, “MusicHelps’ supporters believe in the power of music to help and heal.”
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