Governor Andy Beshear announced that 12 nonprofit organizations across Kentucky have received grants through the Arts Access Assistance program to support health and wellness initiatives through the arts, according to a statement from the Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet.

The Arts Access Assistance grant program is designed to support arts and health programming that uses creative strategies to enhance the overall health and well-being of individuals and communities throughout the commonwealth. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $5,000 per organization.

The program seeks proposals that incorporate arts-based strategies aligned with the goals of Our Healthy Kentucky Home, a state health initiative. Eligible projects may benefit those in healthcare settings, including healthcare workers, caregivers, patients and their families, or increase participation in the arts among underserved populations.

"By investing in the arts, we can help this industry grow and thrive," Beshear said in a previous statement about Kentucky arts funding. "We are proud to support these organizations and look forward to seeing the ongoing positive impact they provide throughout the commonwealth."

The Kentucky Arts Council, part of the state's Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet, administers the grant program. Organizations must maintain 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and may use grant funds for artists' services, professional fees, materials and supplies, facility rentals, and project-specific travel.

The council encourages partnerships between arts organizations and healthcare or social service providers to maximize impact on community health and well-being. For more information about grant opportunities, visit the Kentucky Arts Council website.