Music has long brought people together to resist, to inspire change and perhaps most importantly, to heal during times of crisis.
Founder and Executive Director of ReString Appalachia, and professional musician of nearly 20 years, Nicholas Edward Williams is no stranger to the restorative powers of music. “I understand that music is a vital processing mechanism to understand our lives, and therefore our traumas, our wins, our losses, our evolution,” Nicholas shared. “Not having access to that tool following a natural disaster can take a devastating toll on the psyche.”
When Hurricane Helene swept through Appalachia in September 2024, it displaced hundreds of thousands of individuals and destroyed homes, businesses and livelihoods in a matter of days. For musicians in the region, many of whom rely on music as a source of income and cultural identity, and also a creative outlet, the hurricane took more than shelter; it took their instruments, the very tools they need to rebuild.
And with that, ReString Appalachia was born: a nonprofit organization initiated by the music history podcast American Songcatcher, whose mission is to restore music, the vital outlet for healing and rebuilding by providing high-quality instruments to those impacted by natural disasters to help musicians reclaim their livelihoods, reconnect with their roots and bring music back to communities that need its healing power just as much as the musicians themselves.
ReString Appalachia receives high-quality instruments through its website, where anyone can donate instruments, from banjos to mandolins and everything in between. The organization then places those instruments directly into the hands of musicians who need them most.
How does it work? Musicians (professional or hobbyists) visit the ReString Appalachia website and fill out a form detailing what instruments they lost. The organization then matches them with a donated instrument, doing their best to provide one that meets or exceeds the quality of the original.
One couple in Marshall, NC lost $50,000+ worth of musical gear and instruments. When ReString Appalachia was able to replace 12 different pieces of their gear, including a full PA system, they were “beside themselves,” said Nicholas. “One of them said, ‘I feel like I have to thank your entire lineage, your ancestors, for this incredible offering.’”
Musicians nationwide have rallied behind the cause, including Sierra Ferrell, Chris Eldridge, The Local Honeys and Norman and Nancy Blake, among many others. ReString Appalachia even donated a guitar to Indigo De Souza after she was impacted by Hurricane Helene when it tore through Marshall, NC.
While ReString Appalachia was born as a direct response to Helene, its mission is only just beginning. The organization quickly extended its efforts to those affected by Hurricane Milton and the LA wildfires. “We do plan to continue as a 501(c)3 nonprofit going forward, taking instrument relief applications for people affected by natural disasters for the foreseeable future,” explained Nicholas. “Helping people is addicting. While the rest of the world appears to be on fire, I get to focus on the good in the world… and I get to experience the beauty of human connection every day.” As of June 29, 2025, ReString Appalachia has donated 815 instruments to individuals in need and isn’t slowing down any time soon.
In the wake of the devastating June 2025 floods in Northern West Virginia, ReString Appalachia is ready to step in. The organization is committed to supporting those hit hardest. “We’re here because we see you and we hear you,” said Nicholas. “It would be an honor to help you; all you have to do is ask.”
If you or someone you know lost instruments in the flood, visit restringappalachia.org to submit a request for a replacement instrument.
Or, If you believe in the healing power of music and want to help meet the growing need for instruments among musicians affected by natural disasters nationwide, support ReString Appalachia by donating today.
Every note played on an instrument donated by ReString Appalachia is a testament to resilience. It reminds us that music is not just a creative outlet, it’s a lifeline, a source of healing that helps individuals and communities connect, rebuild and find hope in the aftermath of crisis.
