A social media post by CCHS. Dedicated to actively sharing local history, the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) has utilized virtual resources – including Facebook – to offer programming throughout the current public health crisis. CCHS will receive extended funding as part of the HNY CARES Emergency Relief Grants.

NORWICH – The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) was recently notified that it will receive extended funding as part of the Humanities New York (HNY) CARES Emergency Relief Grants. Earlier this year, CCHS received funds during the original round of these grants, which were provided by the CARES Act and National Endowment for the Humanities to support organizations with a mission focused on the humanities. This funding is designed to be flexible, allowing organizations to allocate as necessary to support pandemic associated costs, adapt humanities programming, and cover personnel expenses.

HNY reviewed 325 applications from a variety of institutions across the state, requesting a total of nearly $3 million in funding. Of those 325 applicants, approximately 60 percent were chosen for funding, resulting in nearly $1 million of CARES Act support to cultural non-profits across New York. The purpose of these awards is to help organizations stay vital in their communities by allowing them to retain staff, shift programming from in-person to online, and to make resources accessible to those who rely on them. Decisions on grant recipients were made after careful consideration of geographic location, mission, and the importance of reaching underrepresented communities.

While CCHS has paused traditional programming, the organization has been able to strategically plan for the future and develop creative new ways to accomplish its mission. Virtual programming has grown exponentially, including online exhibit openings and a new “Cooking Historically” series on social media.

“Thanks to the financial support through a grant like this, the future of our organization looks to be very promising,” said Jessica Moquin, CCHS executive director. “Being a recipient of extended funding through the CARES program is very inspiring. This additional support ensures that the unique cultural heritage of Chenango County will continue to be preserved and celebrated.”

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