Four area cultural organizations are among 267 across the state that will share in a portion of $7 million in grants awarded by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. On Dec. 2, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the allocation from the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the department launched the Iowa Arts & Culture Recovery Program that very day. More than 550 requests totaling $36 million were received by the Dec. 11 deadline. In Carroll, the Carroll Arts Council has been awarded $3,600 and the City of Carroll Auditorium $1,500. The other two local grants went to Jefferson cultural entities. The Greene County Historical Society was granted $2,500 and the History Boy Theatre Company also received $2,500. “The Iowa Arts and Culture Recovery Program stabilizes a vital part of Iowa’s economy by helping our arts and cultural sector build a much-needed funding bridge for stronger recovery,” says Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Director, Chris Kramer. “We are so grateful to Gov. Reynolds for her steadfast support of Iowa’s creative and cultural workforce. These grants provide for thousands of Iowans whose jobs and livelihoods have been impacted this year.” Data gathered from applicants showed they have lost a combined $46.4 million in income since the onset of the pandemic.
