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IN THE NEWS

Empowering Creativity with ARPA Grants

Nikki Giraffo

In 2023, Refuge Art School was honored to receive two critical ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grants—one in July and the other in October. These grants have had a profound impact on our ability to sustain and expand our mission of fostering creativity, connection, and healing through art in our community. With these funds, we’ve been able to support essential programs, maintain our creative spaces, and provide the resources necessary to nurture artistic growth for students of all ages and backgrounds.


Whether it’s through providing art supplies, funding our community events, or supporting our teaching artists, these grants have allowed us to continue offering high-quality, accessible art education to all. One of the highlights this year has been the expansion of our community canvases initiative and live art events, which brought artists and neighbors together to collaborate and connect. Additionally, the grants have bolstered our ability to offer needs-based financial aid, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to artistic expression for our students.


We’re incredibly grateful for the support of the ARPA grants and the trust placed in us to use these funds to uplift our community through art. This funding is a testament to the importance of creativity and connection in times of recovery and resilience.


Thank you to our supporters, students, and the greater Lowell community for making Refuge a hub of inspiration and growth. Together, we’re creating a future where art continues to heal, unite, and empower, and where students feel seen, heard & supported.


Stay tuned as we put these resources to work—creating more opportunities, hosting exciting events, and expanding our programs for 2024 and beyond!







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