Recently, Representative Josh Harder (CA-10) announced that Central Valley venues have received over $3,800,000 in federal COVID grants through the Shuttered Venue Operator Grant (SVOG) program. Last month, Rep. Harder pushed the Biden administration to speed up delivery of these critical grants to Valley stages, bars, movie theaters, museums and concert halls. After that advocacy, six venues across the Valley have received the help they need to reopen their doors and rehire their staff.

“Last month I pushed the Biden administration to get their act together and speed up the delivery of these critical funds to our small businesses. Today, I’m proud to say that more than $3.8 million is coming back home to the Valley,” said Rep. Harder. “I can’t wait to sit down for a performance and go to a movie this summer, and I’m glad our venues will be reopening with the resources they deserve.”

“We are beyond thrilled to be awarded the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant,” said Modesto State Theater Executive Director Kirstie Boyett. “It has been a crazy year; we are indebted to Congressman Harder’s willingness to fight for this bill. In additional, we appreciate the support of our community, staff, patrons and board members that have stood by us. #saveourcinemas”

For more information about the six businesses in CA-10 who receive SVOG grants, email Andrew at Andrew.Mamo@mail.house.gov.