UPAC and the Kingston Uptown Business Association are among the first groups to receive funding under a pandemic relief program aimed at supporting special events in the city, with $25,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds allocated for UPAC’s free film series, and another $5,000 going to support KUBA’s annual snowflake festival.

In 2020, Kingston was awarded $17.3 million in ARPA funds to assist with recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. The money was allocated to a range of projects and programs including infrastructure work, mental health services and assistance to small businesses. From the ARPA award, $375,000 was set aside to assist nonprofits and businesses putting on community events. The program offers grants of up to $5,000 per event. Individual organizations are eligible for up to five grants. To qualify, the business or organization must be located in Kingston and the events must be free and open to the public. Funded events must have existed before 2020 or, for new programs, must be youth and family-oriented and not duplicate existing events.

The first round of funding under the program includes four separate $5,000 grants to UPAC parent company Bardavon for its spring, summer and fall free film series and a live performance of “Through the Fire.” Another $5,000 award will assist KUBA’s annual Snowflake Festival held each December in the Stockade District.

“Kingston has long been a city of events, which have been a draw to our area and a source of community pride and unity,” said Mayor Steve Noble in a statement. “Our goal with this program is to support as many local events and festivals as possible, and I encourage community groups to apply for this funding.”

Funding is still available for events scheduled for 2023. The last day to apply is November 1 and the last eligible event date is December 31. More information is available at www.engagekingston.com.