In early January, rapidly spreading fires hit Los Angeles homes. This devastating event burned around 16,000 homes, causing families to find themselves without their homes, cars, and sentimental belongings. One surprising item locals struggled to lose was their musical instruments. These items meant the world to many striving artists and music instruction programs.

To give back to the community, well-known musical instrument retailers offered grants for lost gear to those affected by the wildfires. They received over 2,000 requests for lost materials. To qualify, the applicant must be in an in-school music program, an after-school music program, a community music program, or a music therapy program. Los Angeles-based musicians were also welcome to apply. 

Many musicians, like John Mayer, for example, showed their support for the movement through an Instagram post, donation, or announcement. In a city full of artists, the Guitar Center’s grants brought thousands of people’s dreams back to reality. More information about the topic is available at Guitar Center Foundation.