Humboldt County venues receive $1.7 million in COVID relief funds

August 09, 2021

Humboldt County arts organizations and venues have received more than $1.7 million in COVID relief funds from the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program.

The program, established through the bipartisan COVID-19 relief package passed in December 2020, provides support to small businesses in the music and entertainment sector that were forced to shut their doors because of pandemic restrictions.

North Coast Rep. Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) said 62 venues within his district have secured more than $35 million in funds to date.

“Local businesses in the music and entertainment industry are an important thread in the fabric of our communities — they create good jobs, bolster the economy, and contribute to the culture of our region,” Huffman said in a prepared statement. “The American Rescue Plan created the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program to provide a lifeline to struggling businesses, but it’s been difficult for many to access those funds.”

Humboldt County venues have secured $1,716,559 in funds to date, according to the statement.

  • Blue Ox Historic Village & School in Eureka – $36,408
  • Dance Scene Studio in Eureka – $10,803
  • Redwood Art Association in Eureka – $29,128
  • Minor Theatre Group in Arcata – $550,301
  • Playhouse Arts in Arcata – $28,198
  • Northern Nights Music Group in Garberville – $740,710
  • Mateel Community Center in Redway – $321,211

In addition to the businesses, Huffman said the Small Business Administration has now approved a total of 9,844 grants, 1,393 of which are for California businesses.

“I will continue working to ensure local businesses have the support they need to thrive as we rebuild from the pandemic,” Huffman said.

More information on the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant can be found at tinyurl.com/7f2cd93x.


By:  Isabella Vanderheiden
Source: Eureka Times Standard