If you want to play for free, go to Veteran's homes, hospitals, fundraisers. Nursing homes for the most part are owned by multi-million dollar corporations and actually have good budgets but as long as they can get people to play for free, they will.
By playing for free, you take an opportunity for someone like Gary or others to earn their livings.
There are lots of really good musicians playing for free around here. One NH called me last year and offered me $30. to come play. They said that was more than they usually paid. I respectfully declined.