Artists working in the gig economy are particularly hard hit when emergencies strike. As the coronavirus pandemic expands, events are being canceled, which often means loss of income for the artists involved.

Crosshatch Center for Art and Ecology is working with funders in Northern Michigan to provide emergency funds for artists in need right now. They have started with a seed fund of $9,000, and are actively raising money to expand the fund.

“Within hours of announcing the emergency fund, we had several artists apply, reporting many thousands of dollars in losses. These are artists that we know and love here in Northern Michigan, and it is heartbreaking to know that their families are struggling” said Amanda Kik, co-founder and co-director of Crosshatch. “Please help support this fund if you are able.”

Artists can apply right now—the application is short and simple. It is available online at www.crosshatch.org/emergency.