The Crew Nation Global Relief Fund has raised $15m to support live music crews who have been affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The money raised so far is able to help 15,000 crew members across 36 countries.

The fund hopes to raise at least $30m so that it can continue providing support for these independent workers who are the backbone of the live music industry.

“The support we have received has been overwhelming, but the number of people who still need assistance is staggering and our work is nowhere near done,” said Music Forward Foundation Executive Director Nurit Smith. “The artist community has been so incredibly supportive and creative, utilizing their resources and platforms to make personal donations and drum up contributions through the release of exclusive merch, new music, live streamed performances and much more, and our hope is that it continues to keep rolling.”

Music Forward Foundation administers the fund, which was launched with a $5m donation from Live Nation, which then matched the next $5m in donations from artists, fans and employees for a total contribution of $10 million from the company. Among the artists who have contributed are Anderson .Paak, Backstreet Boys, Justin Timberlake, Metallica and U2.

Crew Nation recently released a new line of summer merch, with 100% of proceeds benefiting the fund. Contributions up to $80,000 can be made directly via PayPal. Any larger gifts can be coordinated by contacting crewnation@hobmusicforward.org. The fund continues to accept applications.