The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut will use a recent grant award to help serve local children.

State Rep. Farley Santos (D-109^th) secured the $50,000 grant, which the Cultural Alliance will re-grant to other organizations and artists for projects.

“We know that a key factor in a successful city is a thriving arts and cultures community,” Santos said. “For several years, the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut has filled the void to promote the arts for residents in Danbury. I’m proud to have secured this Youth Services Prevention grant which will enable Danbury children to further embrace the arts in an equitable and accessible way through the Cultural Alliance. I look forward to this program’s continued success and I commend Lisa Scails and the Cultural Alliance Board of Directors for their tireless work in our community.”

The Youth Development Program aims to foster creative expression while supporting core social and emotional skills. The activities enabled by the grant will strengthen social ties, and develop critical learning and other skills needed to for the participating children to be active contributors to their communities.

“The evidence is overwhelming that arts education supports academic achievement and social wellbeing,” said Lisa Scails, executive director of the Cultural Alliance. “This funding opens the door for the Cultural Alliance to deliver the best arts-based services available to children.” She added that the programs may include drawing, painting, music, poetry, and theater to engage young people.