By CLTure News
April 1, 2020 (updated)
The Arts & Science Council has launched a fund to support artists and performers living in Charlotte-Mecklenburg that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The Mecklenburg County Resiliency Fund for local creatives will assist those directly impacted by COVID-19 with $500 grants to eligible artists as long as funding is available.
“Many creatives rely on public performances and events as primary sources of income,” said ASC President Jeep Bryant. “This fund provides emergency funds to creative individuals in our community as they navigate potentially dire economic situations as a result of the pandemic. The fund is open to donations from anyone who is able to join us in providing financial support during this challenging time.”
Requests will support reimbursement for medical expenses related to COVID-19 testing or care, including mental health counseling, unanticipated childcare or dependent adult care expenses and compensation for lost income due to a cancellation of a scheduled gig, exhibit, sales or similar event due to COVID-19 precautionary measures.
Data from an ongoing COVID-19 impact survey according to ASC, shows that more than 90 percent of artists have been negatively impacted by COVID-19. The biggest impact is related to event cancellations (87 percent).
The grant criteria and application is available at ArtsAndScience.org. Please also consider donating to the Mecklenburg County Resiliency Fund.
Update: $82,307 has been raised in donations and $48,500 invested in 97 artists as of May 3, 2020 according to the Arts & Science Council website.
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