WXPN launches Music Community Relief Fund with donation to Philly Music Fest’s micro grant program

This week WXPN has extended a hand to help those helping musicians and gig workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic with the establishment of a Music Community Relief Fund.

With non-essential businesses in the region closed indefinitely and large gatherings prohibited, many in the live music scene are feeling the pinch — the artists, as well as the production staff, and the sound and lighting crews. For touring musicians, it extends further to their merch persons and road managers.

Last month, Philly Music Fest established a micro-grant program that to date has issued 90 grants of $250 to artists and staff at local independent venues affected by the shutdown. XPN’s first act with the establishment of its Music Community Relief Fund was the commitment of $25,000 in support to Philadelphia Music Fest’s grant program.

“WXPN faces fundraising needs of its own, but is committed to raising and distributing these funds with the goal of the return of the viable and vibrant local live music scene when the resolution of the current public health crisis permits,” says WXPN General Manager Roger LaMay.

WXPN’s donation will allow another 100 recipients of Philly Music Fest’s program to receive funds to help them pay for food, rent, utilities, or any other expenses that they may be challenged to pay at this time, due to lack of employment.

Going forward, XPN will continue to allocate money for the Musician Community Relief Fund as part of its regular fundraising efforts, using it for additional partnerships and ongoing support of the music scene.