Packard Museum Gets Emergency Grant from Ohio Humanities

WARREN, Ohio – The National Packard Museum has received a $9,959 emergency grant from Ohio Humanities to help the museum stay open during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Shutting our doors during the shelter-in-place order was necessary, but it had significant short-term economic effects on the museum,” said Mary Ann Porinchak, executive director of the museum, in a statement. “Closing to the public meant a major loss of revenue from admissions, store sales and fundraising events. In addition, the overall economic downturn greatly impacts contributions. We are grateful for the Immediate Emergency Grant provided by Ohio Humanities and are pleased to be open to the public again.”

The museum is adhering to Ohio’s Responsible RestartOhio plan and is following all guidelines in the Consumer, Retail, Services & Entertainment category. Safety precautions including social distancing, daily symptom assessments for employees, frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces and limiting capacity.

Ohio Humanities is using its funding received through the federal coronavirus relief bills to provide provide support to humanities organizations throughout the state, including aid with short-term operating costs.

In May, Ohio Humanities announced it would provide $750,000 to history societies, museums and other cultural organization.

“Whatever the outcomes of the pandemic and economic crisis, we want to be certain that our rich history and culture remain available to Ohioans,” said director Pat Williamsen when the OH Cares grant program was announced. “The OH Cares program will ensure that Ohio’s heritage is not another victim of the crisis.”

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.