MoCo Approves Spending $3.25M On Struggling Art Groups, Workers

ROCKVILLE, MD — The Montgomery County Council on Tuesday unanimously voted to approve a $3.25 million coronavirus relief fund for local artists and art groups.

"At this time of a global health pandemic and civil unrest, we need our artists and artistic institutions to survive so they can provide an outlet for cultural and civic expression, which is so incredibly needed to heal and unite our community and nation," said Councilmember Evan Glass, who served as the executive director of an arts organization before joining the council. "The arts sector is a vibrant part of Montgomery County's economic engine, and it is important that we provide support during these crises so that they are ready to turn their lights on and raise their curtains when it is safe to reopen."

Of the $3.25 million, $3 million will go to arts and humanities organizations. The other $250,000 will go to individual artists.

The county's Arts and Humanities Council will provide the emergency grant funding.

"The arts, like our education community, help to shape and expand our thoughts, beliefs and values," said Councilmember Craig Rice. "Montgomery County recognizes the importance of our arts community and appreciates the work of our artists and our arts and humanities organizations. We are united in our commitment to supporting them during these difficult times."

Click here to learn more about the special appropriation.