Sound Sleep Initiative Description:

For many ailments, a good night’s sleep is one of the most important factors contributing to a successful recovery. The Sound Sleep Initiative is an effort to ensure that musicians and other members of the New Orleans cultural community have a much better chance at getting a good night’s sleep when they get home. The Sound Sleep Initiative is a partnership between WWOZ and the New Orleans Musicians Clinic, initiated and is made by possible by the continued generous support of Doerr Furniture.

Today, the New Orleans Musicians Clinic treats and assists more than 2,500 local musicians. Of these, more than 80% live below the federal poverty level. When it comes to deciding how to spend their hard-won wages, rent, cars, insurance, and bills take priority over a quality mattress and bed.

“It is so important that our patients at the NOMC learn to prevent illness and take care of themselves in the best way they can - particularly in getting enough sleep. Through partnerships we can aid them in doing this,” said Bethany Bultman of the New Orleans Musicians Clinic.

A committee of musician advocates makes recommendations of musicians and culture bearers who would most benefit from healthy sleep. Criteria includes (but is not limited to) recent surgery, struggles with chronic illness, and chronic pain. All recipients are vital members of the New Orleans cultural family, including Mardi Gras Indians, social aid and pleasure club members, musicians, performers, and music and service industry workers - all of whom have shown commitment to their own self care.

To find out more about the program, please contact Erica Dudas, Managing Director at the New Orleans Musicians Clinic at ericadudas@nomaf.org.