Louisiana's cultural institutions have suffered economically as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been difficult for non-profit humanities-based organizations to remain financially sound throughout the past year due to a loss of operational expenses. To help alleviate this situation, a grant program that provides to humanities-based organizations in Louisiana is officially relaunching and will be accepting applications starting May 21
Sponsored by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Louisiana Culture Care Fund is a program that provides grants to support these institutions. Museums, historic sites, festivals, and archives are just a few examples of eligible organizations that may receive support from The Louisiana Culture Care Fund.
The grants are provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to support the preservation of humanities-based projects. As stated on its website, the "NEH cultural relief funding will support a wide range of humanities initiatives and may cover costs such as personnel, technology, training, materials, supplies, equipment, and associated indirect costs."
The American Rescue Plan Act plays a large role in this being that it is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill aimed to start a vaccination program, provide relief to families, and support struggling communities. With The American Rescue Plan Act put into place in March 2021, the NEH can now distribute these grants to humanitarian organizations all over the country that need economic relief. These grants can range between $3,000 and $20,000.
All humanities-based institutions in Louisiana are encouraged to apply, however, it is especially encouraged that organizations that are minority-serving or are based out of rural areas apply as well.
Applications to receive a grant open on Friday, May 21 and close on Friday, July 9 or when all funds have been disbursed. Information sessions will be held on Friday, May 21 at 10 a.m. and on Wednesday, June 16 at 2 p.m. If you are interested in learning more about the Louisiana Culture Care Fund grant opportunities, you can register to attend an information session here.
For more information, please visit leh.org/grants.
