In March and April this year, Savannah Wisdom provided one-off hardship grants to Creative Freelancers in Manchester who were ineligible for The Government Covid-19 recovery scheme. In the most difficult period for the arts in recent years, we were really concerned that many creatives would be lost to the city without it. Alongside project partners, The B&M Community Fund, Manchester City Council, and HOME Manchester, the initiative provided a helping hand to nearly 200 freelancers who were facing financial hardship due to the effects of Covid-19 on their businesses.
To continue aiding the recovery to the sector, Savannah Wisdom went on to contribute funds towards enabling ‘HOMEground’ – an exciting new outdoor venture – set up by HOME Manchester. A large area of waste ground, close to the city centre, provided entertainment throughout the summer in a safe space with the aim of supporting creative artists into paid work and re-engaging with audiences. It provided performances in a Covid secure way, therefore, helping to generate some of the economic recovery so badly needed within the city. With the donation from Savannah Wisdom, HOME Mcr were able to keep tickets at a more affordable level than otherwise would have been possible – enabling more families and those on lower incomes access. During the 12 weeks, HOMEground welcomed almost 50,000 visitors and worked with over 700 artists.
Savannah Wisdom was delighted to be able to contribute to this fantastic initiative and extend our heartfelt congratulations to all who made it such a success. See more here – Homeground by HOME: One amazing Summer on Vimeo