Thanks to over $500,000 in funding from National Endowment for the Humanities through the CARES Act by Congress, Alabama Humanities Foundation was able to offer relief grants to organizations with a demonstrated commitment to public humanities programming, including museums, libraries and archives, historic sites, professional organizations and other cultural organizations across the state. This rapid-response funding is designed to aid nonprofit organizations that are facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The St. Stephens Historical Commission, operating the St. Stephens Historical Park and Museum, received support through this grant program. The park largely generates operating income through tourist activities which experienced a sharp decline in April and May due to the travel restrictions in place due to COVID-19. These grant monies were a welcome relief to aid in the continuation of park operations.
During the application process, AHF received 103 grant requests, totaling over $1.3 million and announced it has awarded 79 CARES Act relief grants totaling $507,500 for operational costs of these organizations, including salaries, rent, property maintenance, utilities, supplies and equipment. “This has been a difficult time for nonprofits throughout our state, and we were proud to play a role in supporting these organizations during this crisis,” said AHF Executive Director Lynn Clark.
About the Alabama Humanities Foundation
As the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, AHF fosters learning, understanding and appreciation of our people, communities and cultures.