BROOKINGS, S.D. - The statewide South Dakota Humanities Council has awarded more than $400,000 to cultural organizations struggling to maintain operations during the coronavirus pandemic.

The CARES grants, funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities and administered by SDHC, provided unrestricted operating support, humanities program support, or both to qualifying organizations impacted by COVID-19. A total of $414,215 was awarded to 49 organizations in 30 counties.

Among those awarded in Charles Mix County, were:

Geddes Historical Society, Geddes - $4,400

Lake Andes Carnegie Public Library, Lake Andes - $9,600

Wagner Public Library, Wagner - $10,000

The grants are funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act economic stabilization plan. Awards were determined, in part, by financial need and operating budget. General criteria were that organizations maintain a primary business address in South Dakota and have 501(c)(3) status and a DUNS number.

More information can also be found at http://sdhumanities.org/cares. To learn more about the South Dakota Humanities Council, please visit http://sdhumanities.org/subscribe to receive SDHC’s monthly newsletter.

ABOUT THE SDHC

The non-profit South Dakota Humanities Council, founded in 1972, delivers humanities programming to South Dakotans. As a steward of the state’s heritage, the Council promotes the exchange of ideas to foster a thoughtful and engaged society and the appreciation of South Dakota history, literature and the humanities. The council works through grant-making and cultural programs, including the South Dakota Festival of Books and One Book South Dakota. Learn more at sdhumanities.org.