Creative County Offers Support for Innovation in Response to Pandemic

Wyoming, ON - In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lambton County will be modifying its annual Creative County Grant Program to support cultural organizations and events that demonstrate innovation in adapting programs and activities to pandemic restrictions and public health guidelines.

The Creative County Committee will adjust its application criteria for the 2020-21 grant period to allow for the reimbursement of expenses to meet safety requirements that allow cultural events to proceed, or support innovative approaches to ensuring the safe re-opening of cultural destinations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a sudden and substantial impact on the arts, culture and heritage sector in Lambton County. By March 2020, most cultural institutions were indefinitely closed under provincial order, and in-person events and performances were cancelled or postponed. In response, efforts have emerged to provide alternative or new services through digital platforms, or adapting programs and activities to pandemic restrictions and public health guidelines.

"The cancellation of cultural performances, events and activities came at a time when much of the public experienced social isolation, leading to a heightened desire for people to obtain access to culture in their communities," said Jackie Rombouts, Creative County Committee Chair. "Many cultural sector organizations in Lambton County are facing unanticipated costs as they quickly adapt in order to safely continue operations and retain patrons and audiences. This grant will help to support those expenses and keep culture thriving in Lambton."

Under the grant program, the County will provide matching funds for new initiatives, or provide 50% reimbursement of expenses incurred (with proof of purchase) retroactive to April 1, 2020. Eligible expenses include:

• Technology related expenses to support digital engagement or contactless experiences;
• Expenses related to physical distancing measures implemented at cultural sites and events (signs, plexiglass barriers, etc.);
• Expenses related to innovation in program delivery in response to the pandemic;
• Expenses related to other requirements outlined in ‘A Framework for Reopening our Province’.

Applications for the Creative County Grant Program will be accepted online through lambtononline.ca beginning Monday, October 5, 2020. The application period will close on Monday, November 16, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. The committee has allocated an available budget of $35,000 toward this initiative.

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Please contact:

Jackie Rombouts
Chair, Creative County Committee
Mayor of Warwick Township
Lambton County Councillor
519-464-3634
Email Jackie Rombouts

Andrew Meyer
General Manager, Cultural Services
County of Lambton
519-845-0809 ext. 5236
Email Andrew Meyer