Musicians, creatives, and hospitality workers in Southwest Louisiana in need of assistance or resources – please contact Kathy Richard for more info:
kracadiana@nomaf.org
(337) 652-5780
Keeping our cultural workers healthy and creating is the mission of ACHA.
With that in mind, we want to keep our creatives healthy so they can continue sharing their gifts in our beloved cultural community. NOMAF wants to remind our friends in Acadiana that the Acadiana Cultural Health Access (ACHA) program is there to help you navigate the medical system to get tested, treated, and answer your questions. We are also here to take care of you beyond your medical needs.
We know your body is an instrument and strive to help keep it in tune!
ACHA provides:
- Referrals to local, regional, and statewide doctors and dentists
- Assistance with documents needed for appointments
- Advanced referrals to health care specialists
- Assistance accessing financial assistance for medical, housing, and other bills
- Consultations on Medicare, Medicaid, and Affordable Care Act enrollment
Help artists in Acadiana receive access to health resources and timely assistance.
“Kathy was instrumental in helping me to deal with my long-time, career affecting sinus and allergy issues. As soon as I asked for her help, she researched and found the best physician in my area to treat me and help to find the money needed to pay for it. I had also had my main instrument stolen and was not able to get another because of finances. This directly affected my business as a cultural musician. She helped me get a grant so that I can get a replacement. She can find a way to help you if you ask. She is one of the best advocates for musicians that I’ve known.”
– Corey Ledet, GRAMMY-nominated musician & songwriter
About Kathy Richard, ACHA Co-Founding Director and Patient Advocate
Kathy Richard is a community advocate and co-founding director of Acadiana Cultural Healthcare Access (ACHA). From her base in Abbeville, she has been on the front lines to assist thousands of Louisiana musicians and cultural workers during her more than 20 years of service. In 1998, Kathy served as a founding partner of both the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic (NOMC) and the Healthcare For Musicians (H4M) program, as well as the Healthcare Initiative Director at the Louisiana Cultural Economy Foundation (LCEF). Her innovative programs -including disaster response initiatives, a state-wide health referral network, and Louisiana’s first smoke-free movement- have provided vital health and advocacy services, helping to enrich the livelihood of culture bearers in her community.
Email: kracadiana@nomaf.org