Almost $2 million has been raised to help New Jersey's cultural institutions survive amid the coronavirus pandemic.

News 12’s Hilary Lane was at the Center Playhouse in Freehold, one of many theaters and venues that have been closed since March.

The New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Fund was created to help venues, artists, actors and stagehands survive what has been a financially crippling time.

The fund will provide grants to help offset some of the expenses incurred during the pandemic. It is welcoming donations.

Nonprofit arts organizations generate more than $660 million in economic activity for New Jersey and employ nearly 22,000 workers.