[Jonular]

Ardent/Lava Grammy-nominated rock band Skillet announced today their efforts to gather funds for the newly organized "Music For Relief" effort in order to futher aid the Tsunami victims in Southeast Asia.

In response to the massive appeal for aid in the earthquake and tsunami stricken areas of Southeast Asia, Music For Relief was formed shortly after the disaster by concerned musicians to provide emergency funds for quake and tsunami victims (see initial press release attached). The organization has made an appeal to musicians and fans to contribute to the fund.

"Since the disaster we've been asking ourselves as a band, 'What can we do?'" commented Skillet lead singer John Cooper. "We've all seen the footage on the news and the despair and loss is unimaginable. With that in mind we will be encouraging our fans to support this massive need by donating any amount of money they can to Music For Relief, so we can join in one of many efforts being made worldwide to help."

Skillet's COLLIDE tour, which also features Seventh Day Slumber and Kids In the Way, kicked off last week to packed houses in Toledo, OH., Dayton, OH., and Peoria,IL. For the remaining 25+ shows, Skillet will work with local promoters and volunteers from the local Red Cross chapters to come out to concerts and set up a donation table, as Cooper makes a challenge for relief during the shows. In markets where Red Cross chapters are unavailable, Skillet will pass out flyers and pass along phone numbers and web address where fans can give donations.

For more information on Skillet, click here.