Shaping Hurricane Recovery Funding in Pinellas County
Pinellas County has received an $813 million Community Development Block Grant to aid long-term recovery for communities impacted by Hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton.
We know that our arts & cultural community was hit especially hard during last year’s storms, and funding is crucial to our sector’s continued recovery.
- Over 80% of cultural institutions experienced revenue declines, with 90% forced to close temporarily.
- More than 90% of artists and cultural organizations suffered financial losses.
- Over 40% of the arts sector had to replace content and merchandise due to storm damage.
Creative Pinellas is calling on artists and arts organizations to make their voices heard and help shape how these recovery funds are allocated. If you, as an individual artist, or your organization were affected, your input is crucial in ensuring that funding supports the arts community’s needs.
How You Can Take Action
1. Complete the Survey in English or in Spanish
Share your experience and help advocate for cultural recovery funding. The survey must be completed by Wednesday, April 16.
2. Attend a Public Input Meeting
Join Creative Pinellas at one of the following meetings to ensure the arts community is represented in discussions about funding priorities:
South County
April 7, 6-8 PM | Lealman Exchange, Ray Neri Room, 5175 45th St. N., St. Petersburg
Mid County
April 10, 6-8 PM | City of Dunedin, City Hall Commission Chambers, 737 Louden Ave., Dunedin
North County
April 24, 6-8 PM | Harbor Hall/White Chapel, 1190 Georgia Ave., Palm Harbor
Stay Informed
County Commission Review of Draft Action Plan
- May 6, 6-8 PM | 333 Chestnut Street, Palm Room, Clearwater
Virtual Meetings to Review Draft Action Plan
- May 13, 11 AM – 12 PM | Register for this Zoom meeting
- May 15, 6 PM – 7 PM | Register for this Zoom meeting
Key Dates to Remember
- Summer 2025 – The Housing and Urban Development Department will review and approve the Action Plan.
- Fall 2025 – Recovery programs will begin to roll out. Note: Applications for funding will not be accepted until the plan is approved.
Your participation is essential. Now is the time to ensure that we speak up for the arts.
