A Southern nonprofit arts organization based in Atlanta is launching a relief program to help artists affected by Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters.
In partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and state arts agencies for nine Southern states including South Carolina, South Arts is debuting an emergency relief and recovery fund designed specifically to support artists impacted by recent natural disasters. There will be instantaneous assistance before addressing medium-to-long-term challenges.
South Arts is providing immediate unrestricted grants starting at $500, with final amounts forthcoming, to help artists affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The program, which will apply to artists in South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia, launched Oct. 31.
“This is a pivotal moment for our region’s cultural landscape. While we are providing immediate relief through this program, we recognize there is still much work ahead,” said Susie Surkamer, President & CEO of South Arts. “Our goal with this emergency fund is to act swiftly in supporting the artists that are vital to the South and also directly impacted by recent devastation.”
The fund relies on the support of foundations and individual donors, and the plan is that it will continue to evolve as the needs of the region’s artists shift during coming months. Individuals and organizations can help by making a tax-deductible donation at South Arts’ website, southarts.org, or by mail to: South Arts, 1800 Peachtree St. NW Suite 808, Atlanta, Ga., 30309.
For additional information about making a gift, contact Charles Phaneuf at [email protected] or 404-201-7923.
“We are fortunate to have strong partners on the local, state, regional and national level who have mobilized to provide resources for those affected by Hurricane Helene,” said Jeff Bell, Executive Director of the North Carolina Arts Council. “Together we will continue to prioritize smart investment to stabilize and strengthen this region, where art is so vital.”
Artists in South Carolina and other qualified states are encouraged to apply. Eligible disciplines include craft, literary arts, media/film, performing arts, traditional/folk arts and visual arts. Applicants must be 18 years or older and actively engaged in their practice.
Applications will be reviewed for both eligibility and need, with priority given to those demonstrating the most urgent financial need. According to South Arts, the selection process will prioritize diversity across disciplines, ethnicity, gender and disability to ensure broad, inclusive support.
South Arts was founded in 1975 to advance Southern vitality through the arts, building on the region’s unique heritage, celebrating local excellence and innovation and enhancing the public value of the arts.