Travelers Aid and Homeless Assistance Center of Oklahoma City

The Gift of Music

A 1991 Stanford University study found that one long-term effect of homelessness on children may be the loss of hopes and dreams. Homeless Children, like children everywhere, talked about growing up to be ballerinas, musicians, sports stars, doctors or lawyers. But they often told those interviewing them, that these things would never happen for them, that these dreams were impossible.

“The Gift of Music” helps homeless children realize their hopes and dreams are possible. Music brings joy and new creative experiences to homeless families and children participating in the Family Outreach Program. Many of the families and especially the children have never had the opportunity to directly experience the wonders of music.

“The Gift of Music” directly benefits homeless families and children in three ways:

1) Children ages (5 - 18), who desire to take music lessons, are given a musical instrument along with the provision of music lessons. Transportation assistance is provided for families to transport their children to lessons; 2) Children who desire to participate in a school band are given instruments; 3) Tickets are provided for families to attend area musicals and concerts.

Music plays a vital role in the development and well-being of children. Music helps children explore their innate abilities and discover the joy of self expression. Music enhances teamwork, discipline, attention, language, reasoning, creativity, and academic performance (Children’s Music Workshop).

Music brings families together. The "Gift of Music" provides homeless families with opportunities to explore music as a recreational outlet. By attending musicals and concerts, families enrich the time spent together and develop common bonds and interests.

The "Gift of Music" is supported by a generous donation from Stone City Attractions and Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Travelers Aid and Homeless Assistance Center's mission is to elevate the needy, homeless and stranded travelers to a position of self-sufficiency.