When natural disasters destroy homes, they also take away the livelihoods – and spirits – of working musicians who lose their instruments.

Last year, Tennessee musician Nicholas Williams started the nonprofit ReString Appalachia to put new instruments into the hands of musicians affected by Hurricane Helene, but quickly expanded his efforts to musicians in need across the U.S. and even recently Jamaica.

Giving away over 1000 instruments so far – guitars, violins and more – is a great honor and “very moving,” says Williams.

Meet Williams and the artists he’s helping!

(Photo/ReString Appalachia Facebook)