Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Hearts & Homes for Refugees.

May 5, 2020 – Pelham, NY – On Sunday, May 17^th at 6:00 p.m. Hearts & Homes for Refugees (https://www.heartsandhomesforrefugees.org/) – a nonprofit grassroots organization that welcomes, assists and advocates for refugees – will be hosting Song To A Refugee – an online COVID-19 relief concert featuring renowned singer-songwriter Diana Jones whose upcoming album of the same name, and 14-city world tour was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual concert will give audiences an exclusive sneak peek the music from Jones’ groundbreaking new album, her 6^th solo recording. In addition, GRAMMY Award-nominated folk icon Richard Thompson, who appears on Song To A Refugee, will make an appearance to perform his much loved song A Heart Needs a Home. All proceeds from the concert will directly benefit refugees and asylum seekers.

Award-winning American musician Diana Jones has been called the “Emily Dickinson of song” and “the female Johnny Cash.”  Her album Song To A Refugee was inspired by the journeys refugees and asylum seekers make in search of safety.

“As a passionate supporter of refugees, an exceptional musician, and a dear friend to Hearts & Homes, we were thrilled when Diana agreed to perform a virtual benefit concert to support our work,” said Kathie O’Callaghan, Founder of Hearts & Homes for Refugees. “Diana’s generosity of spirit comes through in her music and lyrics, and Song To A Refugee is an artistic inspiration for refugees, asylum seekers, and those who support them, during this COVID-19 crisis and beyond.”

Hearts & Homes for Refugees partners with Catholic Charities and HIAS to provide community support to our refugee neighbors. This includes helping refugees find housing and employment, assisting them in navigating the health and education systems, helping them to learn English and to integrate. They also work in the community at large to educate, inspire and equip others to welcome and advocate for the stranger. They lead the Westchester Refugee Initiative, a coalition of like-minded nonprofits, faith and civic groups, and people of goodwill.

“The work has everything to do with my own need to connect with others around this important issue,” said Diana Jones. “At my concerts I usually invite a spokesperson from a local refugee organization to speak during the intermission. It’s amazing to see the audience ask questions and find out how they can help while their hearts are open.” Jones continued, “while we can’t all come together physically at the moment, I hope that this virtual concert is a way to inform people about the unique challenges facing refugees during this global crisis, encourage people to get involved, and give each other hope.”

O’Callaghan added, “some refugees may not have been working in the U.S. long enough before the pandemic to qualify for unemployment benefits or the stimulus package. Others will face challenges due to the nature of their jobs as housecleaners, laborers or other self-employment in the gig economy. Many families will need extra support with rent, utilities, groceries and other essentials. Refugees have already been through so much. It’s our hope that the funds raised from Diana’s Song To A Refugee virtual concert can make the days ahead a bit easier.”

Tickets to the Song To A Refugee virtual concert start at $25 and can be purchased at
https://www.musae.me/riverspiritmusic/experiences/751/hearts-and-homes  For more information, send an email to [email protected].