Austin venues pledge $75,000 to housing nonprofit for aging musicians
A monthlong campaign pairs 20 local clubs with a housing charity that began by helping a blues singer pay rent.
By Kofi Costa ·
Austin music venues are pooling resources to fund housing for veteran performers this month.
The initiative, called HOMEcoming, runs through November and involves 20 participating locations. It is in its second year of operation. The nonprofit behind the effort is Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers, known as HOME. Executive director Hanna Cofer described the strategy as promoting venues heavily for a full month rather than hosting a single gala. Patrons are encouraged to visit the clubs, purchase special cocktails, and attend shows. Cofer stated that higher attendance directly benefits the organization's finances.
The model originated with Joe Ables, owner of Saxon Pub. Last year, Ables pledged to donate one dollar to HOME for every ticket sold at his club during the month. He set a condition that other clubs must also participate. Cofer reported that the venue owners agreed to the challenge. This year, the participating businesses use different methods to contribute. Some, like Donn's Depot, feature a signature cocktail for the entire month. Others, such as the Moody Center, provide a standard sponsorship. Cofer noted that the venues vary significantly in size and format.
HOME was founded fourteen years ago by a group of Austin musicians. The initial goal was to help Lavelle White, an 84-year-old blues singer, secure stable housing. The group raised funds for her rent and apartment furnishings. Afterward, the members recognized that many other aging musicians faced similar financial gaps. The organization has since expanded its services. It now offers housing assistance, advocacy work, and partnerships with healthcare providers. Cofer described the approach as focused and deep, aiming to care for clients holistically while they are involved with the program.
Last November, the first HOMEcoming campaign raised approximately $75,000. Cofer called this a solid result for a debut year. She acknowledged that the total amount is not large in the grand scheme of things. However, she emphasized that the campaign provided valuable exposure for both the nonprofit and the local music scene. Cofer linked the effort to the city's cultural identity. She urged residents to support the people behind the music by tipping bands and attending live performances. The campaign concludes at the end of the month, and each participating venue has adopted a decorative mum as part of the theme.
