Since you are in the area, and know him, you might try to contact Barry Ancelet. I heard him express interest in doing just this, not the renting part, but teaching local kids local music. At least he has good contacts.

As far as the Hohners go, seems like retuning them is not so big a deal, and they sound pretty darn good retuned. I like this idea a lot. I strongly feel the best way to promote interest in our culture is through the music.