Caffe Lena Receives Assistance from American Rescue Plan

SARATOGA SPRINGS — “The American Rescue Plan has rescued an American music treasure,” according to Caffe Lena Executive Director Sarah Craig. The historic Saratoga Springs venue announced receipt of an award of $255,000 in the form of a Shuttered Venues Operators Grant. 

“The funds give us security during a very unpredictable time,” said Craig. The 110 seat venue on Phila Street is planning to return to full capacity on July 30 with a two-show night featuring the indie folk band Darlingside. 

A nationwide grassroots push to include assistance for  performing arts in the American Rescue Plan was facilitated by Senator Chuck Schumer. Schumer was a major force in securing $16 billion for live performance venues and cultural organizations.

Caffe Lena joins Capital Region arts organizations Proctors, SPAC and The Palace in winning funds to make up for 2020 losses and assist with the cost of returning to normal operations.

To learn more about Caffè Lena’s wide-ranging programs, visit www.caffelena.org.