One of lower Manhattan's most beloved music venues is asking its community to help it survive the COVID-19 pandemic.
Arlene's Grocery has been a fixture of various independent music scenes in New York City since 1995, offering artists of all genres a legitimate city stage on which to perform.
Like thousands of small music venues just like it, the COVID-19 pandemic has stretched Arlene's thin. The venue says it will be closing its doors for good on February 1, 2021, without significant help.
"After 25 years of serving the Lower East Side, and giving a platform for musicians and artists alike, Arlene's Grocery is on life support," read a statement shared on Arlene's social media. "Without any aid we will not be able to continue to serve our community and will be closing our doors on February 1st. The owners and staff members are absolutely heartbroken. Arlene's has become a home to so many over the years and we are in desperate need of your help."
The venue is urging music fans in New York City and beyond to help any way they can, whether by sharing information about helpful resources, buying Arlene's merchandise, joining its Patreon, contributing to its GoFundMe campaign or simply sharing fond memories of nights at Arlene's and helping to get the word out.
Donate to help save Arlene's Grocery here.
As of this writing, the venue has raised more than $23,000 towards its $80,000 funding goal.
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