Toronto rock band PUP announced this week it will use its concerts to support local charities.
“In every city where we’re headlining a show this year, we are working on partnering with a local charity,” read a statement on the band’s Instagram.
“We’ve found charities that do work in areas we care about (at-risk youth & LGBTQ+ people, women’s charities, mental health, music education) in order to try & have a sustained impact on the communities we are touring in.”
PUP explained: “You’ll find representatives from a local charity in your city situated somewhere near the merch table.”
PUP did not say if it plans to donate a portion of proceeds to the charities.
Indeed, many bands have charitable elements built into their tours, whether it be allocating a portion of ticket sales or inviting charitable organizations to set up displays at venues. Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, U2 and Canada’s Simple Plan are among the rock acts that have used live shows to give back.
PUP, formed in 2010, is touring in support of its third album, Morbid Stuff, which comes out April 5. They have sold-out shows in Edmonton and Vancouver this week followed by one on April 3 in London, Ont.
The band then embarks on the European and U.S. legs of the tour. PUP plays the Danforth Music Hall in hometown Toronto on June 7 and 8 and returns for a July 21 show at RBC Echo Beach.