US CHARITY HELPING MUSICIANS

A recent article in The Guardian on the healthcare crises faced by many American musicians highlighted some of the good work being done by a similar organisation to the Musicians Benevolent Fund in the US.

The American healthcare system charges patients for every doctor's appointment, hospital stay and prescription, so falling ill can be a costly business. For people in steady jobs with the right corporate insurance, cover is available, but for musicians this is often not the case. The unpredictable nature of work in the music industry, coupled with the fact that even in their prime many famous musicians don't make a lot of money, means that healthcare premiums are frequently unaffordable. One charity helping to ease the burden on career musicians who are facing illness, disability or age related problems is Sweet Relief, a California based fund. They provide assistance in the form of medical and living expenses, housing costs, food costs and alternative therapies and treatments that are not covered by insurance.

"Fame and fortune are found by few", say Sweet Relief, but "most musicians remain in the field for the love and passion of music". This can mean that when health and old age take a negative toll, the safety net of financial security and health insurance is often not there. In gratitude for the work of artists who brighten lives with their music, Sweet Relief acts as a conduit for society to help them in their time of need.

For more information visit sweetrelief.org