Don’t let Grafton’s arts community become a COVID-19 victim

In normal times, Apple Tree Arts is hopping with children — singing, learning instruments, bringing musicals to the Great Hall at One Grafton Common.

The shows can’t go on during COVID-19. Not in a sustainable way.

At the start of the month, the Grafton-based nonprofit kicked off a crisis fundraising campaign to support the sustainability of the arts education center and venue during the pandemic.

“This fall, we’ve received more requests for financial aid than ever before,” says executive director Alaina Calloway Bolton. “So many kids and teens need the connection, confidence, and emotional outlet that music-making and acting can bring them during this time when everyone feels so isolated. We’ve been able to grant some amount of tuition assistance to every family that’s asked so far, and we’re committed to making sure that no one is turned away due to lack of funds, but we need the community’s help.”

COVID-19 has deeply impacted the performing arts sector across the country, and Apple Tree Arts is no exception. Forced to cancel fundraising events, revenue-generating concerts and performances, and in-person theatre programs due to safety concerns, ATA projects that the organization’s lost revenue will total $256,000 by spring.

Since March 13, ATA has continued to bring performing arts education to students throughout Central Mass online, including one-on-one music lessons, early childhood music classes, and theatre programs. 

“We’ve even been able to continue our 15-year partnership with the Worcester Community Action Council and are providing video classes for Head Start teachers and families to use in school and at home, thanks to grant funding from the Greater Worcester Community Foundation,” says Calloway Bolton.

In most years, 80 percent of Apple Tree Arts’ costs are covered by tuition revenue, while the remaining 20 percent comes from grants and donations. This year, those numbers will be closer to 50/50.

In the first two weeks, ATA’s COVID Crisis Fund campaign has raised $10,147 of the $50,000 goal. The Apple Tree Arts Board of Directors has come forward to offer $12,000 in matching funds, meaning the first $12,000 raised will be doubled by their donations. 

Those interested in making a gift to the fund can do so by visiting http://bit.ly/giveata or mailing a check to Apple Tree Arts at 1 Grafton Common, Grafton, MA 01519.