20-6-CWS | February 4, 2020
BILOXI, Miss. – The Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area (MGCNHA) is seeking applicants for its 2020 Heritage Community Grants program to promote understanding and enhancement of the heritage areas in the lower six South Mississippi counties.
The purpose of the MGCNHA program is to enhance, conserve and provide connectivity to cultural resources of a unique and defined area through identification, interpretation and promotion. These cultural resources of National Heritage Areas provide authentic experiences and serve as a source of pride and identity. Stakeholders in this effort benefit from increased awareness and appreciation of their environment, history, culture, traditions and lifestyles.
The economic effects of heritage resources benefit the entire region and support the long-term enhancement and conservation of those qualities that make National Heritage Areas unique. The MGCNHA, working through the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, administers the National Heritage Area program for the lower six South Mississippi counties.
MGCNHA is a partnership of communities, businesses, governmental agencies, non-profit organizations and individuals who value the region’s rich cultural and environmental diversity, history, natural beauty and traditions. These partnerships tell the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s story of its national significance. Visitors experience the Heritage Area through a set of integrated themes that forefronts the Coast’s unique qualities and emphasizes the important role the region has played in history.
Total anticipated funding for all awards is $100,000, subject to the availability of funds. Grants likely will range from $500 to $50,000. Funds for the MGCNHA’s grants program are provided by the federal government through the National Park Service.
Entities that are eligible to apply include city, state and county governments, universities, non-profit organizations and recognized Gulf Coast Outpost businesses.
There will be a conference call at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 19, for those who have questions about the applications. For call-in information, email heritage@dmr.ms.gov. Applications are available at dmr.ms.gov and msgulfcoastheritage.ms.gov. The deadline for submissions is Monday, March 16, 2020.
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is dedicated to enhancing, protecting and conserving marine interests of the state by managing all marine life, public trust wetlands, adjacent uplands and waterfront areas to provide for the optimal commercial, recreational, educational and economic uses of these resources consistent with environmental concerns and social changes. Visit the DMR online at dmr.ms.gov.
