AUSTIN (KXAN) — A new partnership is giving musicians in the live music capital of the world access to programs to keep them healthy.
A few months ago, the YMCA of Austin teamed up with the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) to offer discounted memberships as low as $15 a month. About 500 musicians have signed up so far.
“This partnership was really a natural fit,” said the Y’s vice president, Sean Doles. Both groups are dedicated to keeping people healthy, especially on a budget.
In its latest annual report, HAAM found its average member makes less than $2,000 a month. A gym membership or healthcare are often not priorities.
“Rent goes up, the cost of living goes up, but if you’re an artist, the money that you get for your art has not gone up,” said Nikki Birdsong, a freelance pianist in Austin.
On KXAN News Today, Birdsong explains how the partnership has changed her life for the better.
Credit: Source link
