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It’s been a rough six months for Scarborough Elementary School students, staff, and parents since Hurricane Harvey flooded their school, making it uninhabitable.
“We suffered a bit of a bump back in August,” said Principal Miriam Medina. “When I saw waves of water inside our beautiful school, I knew we wouldn’t be opening on time.”
It took a month, but they finally reopened in the former Terrell Middle School, which was large enough that they could all be together. Now the students are gathered in the auditorium to celebrate the donation of $25,000 to their music program, thanks to VH1 Save the Music Foundation in partnership with Hard Rock Heals Foundation.
With the funds, Scarborough was able to replace all the instruments lost during the hurricane, as well as purchase additional instruments they need to take their music program to the next level. That includes a full set of xylophones and many band instruments, including a French horn, baritone, snare drum, and tuba.
Scarborough was were selected for the grant because they had received a VH1 Save the Music Core Band Grant in the fall of 2015 to help jumpstart their music program. At that time, they received 36 new instruments worth approx. $35,000.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that all students have access to the tools they need to be successful in school and beyond,” said VH1 Save the Music Program Director Jaclyn Rudderow. “Thanks to our partners, we have made this happen!”
Special guest artist and musician Lola Blu unveiled an original painting dedicated to Scarborough that will hang in the band room. Blu also answered students’ questions during the program and shared the impact music and art have made on her. “Art and music are my life, and being able to combine the two has been a dream of mine since I was 15 years old,” she said.
The Hard Rock Heals Foundation believes in the power of music to improve lives. “Our entire organization is honored to support rebuilding efforts within the Houston community following the 2017 hurricane season,” said Hard Rock International Manager of Global Philanthropy Kellie Brown. “We proudly make this donation to Scarborough Elementary to ensure the joy of music continues in their lives for years to come.”