Branden Lewis knows how to make the best of a rainy day situation. Recently, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band trumpeter decided to share the wealth—via social media, he started distributing funds to local musicians who may need a few extra dollars here and there.

Lewis, who has been steadily employed by the Preservation Jazz HallBand for 4 years was recruited by bandleader Ben Jaffe. “I recorded my first album in 2015 [and] they happened to be looking for a trumpet player at the time and the rest kind of worked itself out.  My first gig was Voodoofest in 2016, and I’ve been on the road with them ever since,” says Lewis.

“Last Sunday, after Thanksgiving, it was cold and kind of miserable.  As I reflected on my future as a musician, I began to feel gloomy.  I started rainydayfundNola to help chase the blues away for my friends and colleagues who are living week to week right now.”

Recognizing his career stability and acknowledging the struggles other musicians have been facing, Lewis took to Facebook to post: “Musicians, dm me if times are rough. I feel blessed and would like to pay it forward. Rainy day fund still rollin!!! Holla.”

Immediately, requests started coming through and fortunately, so did donations.

According to the trumpeter, donations are still coming in and money is still going out.  “We just reached $8,000 in donations, and $7,500 given out in a week,” he states.

The ever-so-helpful Lewis has advice for his fellow musicians who are struggling mentally and emotionally right now.

“Be as open to help as possible, and to also give or volunteer when [you] can,” he advises. “Some of the darkest moments of my life have spurred some of the most fruitful.  There are quite a few resources that are available and you would never know if you don’t ask.”

If you are interested in donating to Lewis’ campaign, email him directly at [email protected].