Is there any "Help the N.O. folks" site or organization that TRULY..

..helps the poor and down and out caused by the hurricane?

Let me explain..I've given some money though the regular channels to help the poor but I want an organization that will simply say:
"Look..we know you're broke, homeless and the whole nine stinking yards..Here's a few thousand bucks to help you get on your feet..spend it where it will do you the most good"

Nothing helps the spirit in times like this, than to (at least) have some good 'ol Greenbacks in your hand.

If you're interested in getting help directly to New Orleans musicians, many of whom have lost homes, property, and GIGS for the foreseeable future, check this out ... three outstanding options.

All links on this page: Help New Orleans Musicians
http://jazz.about.com/od/grantsfoundations/a/nolahelp.htm

Jazz Foundation of America

Addressing the longer term needs of these jazz and blues artists who will have just lost everything, JFA will be raising funds and distributing money for the musicians to get new apartments, or rooms for rent by giving a first month's rent, possibly more, for them to start over in a place to live. (This is what they normally do on a daily basis for musicians across the country who become sick and can't pay their rent. JFA also keeps food on the table and gets employment for hundreds of elderly musicians through their Jazz in the Schools program. Operations normally assist 35 musicians a week.)

JFA will also attempt to help New Orleans musicians by replacing the thing that matters most and the only way they can ever work again: their instruments. To those who lost their instruments, like drummers and bassists who could not carry their heavy equipment, and guitarists with their amps, JFA will make an effort to work with manufacturers and music stores to replace those instruments for as many as possible.

From JFA: "Remember, New Orleans was only "New Orleans" because of the musicians..."

MusiCares Hurricane Relief Fund

The MusiCares Hurricane Relief Fund has been set up so music people impacted by Hurricane Katrina can get help. Assistance includes basic living expenses such as shelter, food, utilities, transportation; medical expenses including doctor, dentist and hospital bills, medications; clothing; instrument and recording equipment replacement; relocation costs; school supplies for students; insurance payments and more.

Established in 1989 by The Recording Academy, MusiCares has been helping people across the country cope with personal, medical and financial hardships. MusiCares provides totally confidential crisis intervention, health care referrals and financial assistance. MusiCares' confidential and caring approach allows those in need to seek help with dignity and confidence.

New Orleans Musicians Clinic (NOMC)

A "hands-on" organization that has the names and addresses of the many great musicians who visit their free health clinic. They are tracking down local musicians and finding them shelter.

From the NOMC: "The New Orleans Musicians Clinic is determined to keep Louisiana Music Alive! It is our beacon to soothe our souls. We want to relocate our New Orleans musicians into the Lafayette/Acadiana community where they can remain a life force! But most of them have lost everything... We must help them rebuild their lives. They can't access any of their NOMC accounts. They desperately need money to fund these efforts."

.rog.