San Diego Nonprofit Receives $125,000 Grant for Music Therapy for Homebound Seniors

Resounding Joy to provide music therapy to medically fragile seniors receiving meals from Mama's Kitchen

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Prebys Foundation has awarded a $125,000 grant to the San Diego nonprofit Resounding Joy to provide music therapy to homebound older adults fighting critical illnesses who are receiving meals from local nonprofit Mama's Kitchen. The grant is part of the Prebys Foundation's Healing Through Arts and Nature initiative to help community groups provide arts, culture and nature to support healing for community members across San Diego County.

Why it matters

The program aims to bring the 'healing power of the arts' to people who might not otherwise have access, providing music therapy to medically fragile seniors who are homebound and in need of support. This initiative aligns with the Prebys Foundation's mission to support community health and wellness through the arts.

The details

Last year, Resounding Joy brought music to 50 participants in Mama's Kitchen's senior nutrition program, which delivers free meals to homebound medically fragile seniors. Participants took part in eight free, weekly one-on-one music sessions led by trained music therapists and musicians in homes, as well as in small groups virtually. This year, the grant will also fund group sessions at some assisted living and memory care facilities.

  • The Prebys Foundation grant was awarded in February 2026.
  • Last year, Resounding Joy brought music therapy to 50 participants in Mama's Kitchen's senior nutrition program.

The players

Resounding Joy

A San Diego nonprofit that provides music therapy programs, including Sounds of Legacy aimed at seniors, Sounds of Service for local military members, Sounds of Healing for children and their families, and Sounds of Community for broad community outreach.

Mama's Kitchen

A local San Diego nonprofit that delivers free meals to homebound medically fragile seniors and others with critical illnesses such as HIV, cancer, congestive heart failure, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.

Prebys Foundation

A San Diego-based foundation that awarded the $125,000 grant to Resounding Joy as part of its Healing Through Arts and Nature initiative to support community health and wellness through the arts.

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What’s next

Resounding Joy plans to use the grant funding to expand its music therapy program, including offering group sessions at assisted living and memory care facilities in addition to the one-on-one home visits.

The takeaway

This grant highlights the growing recognition of the healing power of the arts, especially for vulnerable populations like homebound seniors facing critical illnesses. By partnering with organizations like Mama's Kitchen, Resounding Joy is able to bring music therapy to those who may not otherwise have access, supporting both their physical and mental well-being.