We could potentially triple that number next year, maybe more. One of the other executives, a woman named Janet, spoke up. The corporate sponsors are lining up. We've got interest from instrument manufacturers, streaming platforms, even some major labels wanting to partner. Everyone wants to be associated with this initiative.
Make sure the partnerships don't come with strings, Daniel said immediately. No company gets to use these kids for marketing without their explicit consent. No photo ops they don't want to do. No manufactured storylines. We're not repeating the mistakes of Voices of America.
Janet nodded, making a note. Understood. What about the housing component? Daniel asked. That's the piece I'm most concerned about.
Music lessons don't mean anything if a kid's sleeping in a car. Dr. Morrison pulled up another document. We're partnering with youth housing organizations in 15 cities so far. We've secured apartments, home stays with vetted families, and in some cases, group homes specifically for artists.
We're working with social workers in each location to ensure every student has stable housing, three meals a day, and access to health care. Health care is covered, Amara heard herself ask. It was the first time she'd spoken in the meeting. Everyone turned to look at her. Yes, Dr.
Morrison said gently. Full coverage, medical, dental, vision, mental health. No exceptions. Amara's throat went tight. She nodded, not trusting herself to speak.
Daniel glanced at her, understanding in his eyes, then looked back at the group. "What about the ones we can't fund, the applications we have to turn down?" "We're creating a secondary program," Janet said. "For applicants who don't receive full scholarships, we're offering stipends, free online lessons from professional musicians, and connections to local music programs. It's not the same as full support, but it's something. And we're building a database," Dr.
Morrison added. Every applicant gets added with their consent. As funding grows, we'll go back through and offer additional spots. Nobody gets forgotten. Daniel looked at Amara.
What do you think? You've been quiet. She took a breath. Make sure they don't have to perform their trauma to get help. No essays about their worst experiences.
No auditions where they have to prove how deserving they are. If a kid says they need support, believe them. Dr. Morrison made a note. That's already in our guidelines, but I'll make sure it's emphasized in all communications.