New Jersey Stage Issue 70 | Page 82

neighborhoods, inspiring stu- dents, and generally improv- ing the quality of life for city residents. The Fund will pro- vide up to $1 million dollars annually for at least the next three years, beginning with $750,000 provided by the City to seed the initiative.  “Newark is a ‘City of the Arts,’ where access to spoken-word events, musical and dance per- formances, film, art exhibits, theatre offerings, museums and libraries add exponentially to our economic health,” said Mayor Baraka. “The impact of our arts com- munity is felt in our neighbor- hoods, our businesses, our institutions, and our house- holds, and contributes to the revitalization that Newark is experiencing. As a result of the coronavirus, Newark’s art- ists and creatives,   their orga- nizations and those who sup- port and employ them are being negatively impacted. No strategy to help Newark residents and businesses get through the cononavirus crisis is complete without attention to the health of the arts com- munity. I appeal to our founda- tions and individuals to con- tribute to this fund,” he added. Contributions can be made through Newark Arts; email [email protected] with Creative Catalyst Fund in the subject line. Applications for the grants are now available online until Friday, May 1, 2020. NJ STAGE - ISSUE 70 INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 82