The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH), with support from the State of Louisiana, has awarded $65,000 in Emergency Readiness Grants to 17 cultural organizations across 11 parishes. In Sabine Parish, the Ho Minti Society received $5,000 to strengthen its preparedness for natural disasters and other emergencies.

These grants help museums, historic sites, archives, and other cultural organizations develop emergency plans, train staff, make structural improvements, and protect valuable collections from future threats. Funding may also support insurance deductibles, digital preservation, and other mitigation efforts.

“Cultural institutions like the Ho Minti Society are essential to preserving Sabine Parish’s heritage and history,” said LEH representatives. “This grant provides the resources to help them prepare for emergencies, safeguarding their collections and the community they serve.”

Past recipients, including the Opelousas Museum, have used LEH funding to implement emergency readiness plans, create supply kits, make building improvements, and improve coordination with local first responders, ensuring their cultural treasures are protected during disasters.

With the support of this grant, the Ho Minti Society aims to enhance its emergency preparedness, keeping its collections secure and ensuring continued public access to the rich history and culture of Sabine Parish.