Unison Fund Launches Relief Program For Canadian Music Workers Affected By Los Angeles Fires

Canadian music industry charity Unison Fund has launched a new support program for music workers affected by the Los Angeles fires.

The Natural Disaster Relief Program provides one-time payments of $2,500 to Canadian music workers facing losses from natural disasters, including the wildfires.

The program is the latest initiative offering support to music industry members who have suffered devastating losses in the fires, which have resulted in at least 27 deaths destroyed more than 12,000 structures. The Palisades Fire is 22% contained as of Thursday, January 16, and the Eaton Fire is 45% contained.

"With so many Canadian music professionals living and working in L.A., it was important to create a program that offers meaningful support during difficult times like these," Executive Director Amanda Power tells Billboard Canada.

"The Unison Fund Natural Disaster Relief Program is our way of helping our music community, providing immediate support to help rebuild lives and livelihoods after a crisis.”

Founded in 2010, Unison provides counselling and emergency relief services to Canadian musicians and the music community. The charity previously provided emergency support during 2020 and 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, disbursing over $3.5 million in pandemic assistance.

Among the Canadians affected by the fires include Grammy-winning producer Greg Wells, who lost his home, and musicians Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida who were forced to evacuate. Tim Darcy of Canadian band Cola lost his house in the fire, with friends and community members fundraising to help Darcy and his partner Amy Fort, of FSR Radio. Canadian guitarist Brian Hughes saved one out of 40 of his guitars, while Jens Lindemann rescued 8 of his 35 trumpets.

To qualify for the Disaster Relief Program, applicants must have worked in the music industry for five consecutive years, with a majority of their income coming from music.

Many entertainment organizations have pledged relief support amidst the fires, with Warner Music's Social Justice Fund and MusiCares committing $1 million each in relief funds. The fires have forced the cancellation of major events, including Billboard's Grammy Week activities.

For more about the Unison Fund's Natural Disaster Relief Program and to apply, head here.