The following is an emailed note to some others who have expressed concern for Matt's family from his mother and contains information for sending aid to them:
Subject: Perrine update
Date: Fri, 2 Sep 2005 23:12:47 -0400
Thank you all so very much for your messages of love and concern.
I am in Sacramento with friends and am looking forward to moving back
into my home in the next few weeks. I merely lost things, most of which
can be replaced.
As it stands right now, we are almost certain Matt, Debbie and
Benjamin's home was in the direct path of the flooding waters of Lake
Ponchartrain.
This means they will have lost everything: their home, their belongings
and, with the devastation of New Orleans, their livelihood. They are
both musicians who depend, largely, on the tourist trade for their
livelihood.
The tourists will not be visiting New Orleans for a long time and
finding work will be nearly impossible for quite some time. In the
midst of such terrible uncertainty, Matt and Deb's financial
obligations continue. They include raising young Ben who will turn TWO
September 10, paying their mortgage and meeting all the expenses of daily
life.
Many of you have expressed the desire to help our family so I have
established an account at CalNet Business Bank for them. It will be
accessible by them through ATM and by check. It is in my name, but for
them.
If, through some miracle, they do not need this money, they will pass
it along to families who are in need.
Your outpouring of love and support is the most amazing thing I have
ever experienced. I hope somehow we can repay you, but not in the same
dire circumstance.
Love to all, Grace
PS: If you have or know of anyone who has the need for live music
played and/or sung by world class New Orleans musicians, contact Matt
at
perrine@aol.com.
If you wish to contribute, send me a PM. I will send you the info.
Ike