Deep Vellum awards 43 small relief grants to writers around Texas in second round of Emergency Fund

For the second time this year, Deep Vellum awarded small relief grants to a cohort of 43 writers across the state of Texas who are experiencing financial insecurity as a result of the economic fallout of COVID-19.

In May 2020, Deep Vellum founded the Emergency Relief Fund for Texas Literary Artists, the only relief fund in the state of Texas that specifically supports writers across the state. The relief fund was founded with the goal of supporting writers, many of whom have lost jobs and freelance work since the onset of the pandemic, with basic needs so that they can continue inspiring the public through their literary work. In June, Deep Vellum awarded 43 grants as part of the first cycle of the relief fund.

This month, Deep Vellum awarded another 43 grants after accepting applications from writers around the state for the second cycle of relief funding.

Recipients included writers from all of the major metropolitan areas in Texas as well as suburban and rural communities. 47% of recipients included people of color, and 60% of recipients were women. Over half of applicants reported an annual income of less than $15,000.

Deep Vellum Executive Director Will Evans reflected on the way that writers continue to be impacted by the global crisis: “We had hoped that the dire economic situation faced by writers in Texas—and across the country—would have improved by now, but here we are in October, and writers are still in a very precarious situation. Deep Vellum is happy to play a small role in providing some support to the amazing individuals around our state who tell our stories, challenge us, and comfort us in ways that are vital for shaping the future of our communities.”

"In a remarkably short period of time, Deep Vellum's impact on the cultural community of Dallas has been exceptional,” added Deep Vellum Board President Steven Kornajcik. “As an active voice for the arts, Deep Vellum continues raising awareness and funds for writers in need, while the current crisis deepens with no end in sight”.

Deep Vellum is grateful to the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas; the Embrey Family Foundation; and Nancy Perot, owner of Interabang Books, for supporting the second round of funding for Texas writers.