State Representative’s Larry B. Butler (D-Waterbury), David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury) and Jeff Berger (D-Waterbury) welcomed grants to the city of Waterbury from the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD). Waterbury arts and cultural organizations received five grants totaling $145,784. Statewide, a total of $2.48 million was distributed to 36 cities and towns through DECD’s Arts and State Historic Preservation Office.
“We should all be proud of our arts and cultural programs in Waterbury and the individuals who make these programs so successful. These awards recognize the importance of that work,” said Rep. Butler. “I will continue to fight for these and other critical state dollars to improve and sustain the arts and our cultural heritage.”
The five groups in Waterbury who received grants are:
• Mattatuck Historical Society $21,875
• Seven Angels Theatre $2,882
• Waterbury Region Arts & Culture Collaborative $108,744
• Waterbury Symphony Orchestra $4,274
• Palace Theatre Group, Inc. $8,009
“These organizations, as well as our beautiful Arts Magnet School, are a testament to the fact that Waterbury has consistently supported the arts throughout the years,” Rep. Berger said. “These grants are a confirmation of the importance of the arts in enriching lives in a vibrant and diverse community.”
The grant programs were was established by the State of Connecticut to stimulate the development of private sector funding and help stabilize arts institutions. The $108,744 grant is a one-time initiative bringing mural-based public art into downtown spaces by enhancing public spaces through the visual arts and to connect the urban regions of Connecticut with a statewide place making initiative.
“These grants are good news for Waterbury’s residents,” Rep. Aldarondo said. “This financial support helps our people who are working on the local level to promote art and culture right in our own community.”