MASSENA — Grant funding and donations have allowed the Massena Arts and Theater Association to make strides in restoring the historic Schine Theater in downtown Massena.
But, in some cases, there’s a local match, and President Allison Smith says that’s the case right now.
“We’re excited to share that we’ve secured significant grant funding to help bring this historic theater back to life. However, in order to unlock these funds, we must raise $400,000 over the next 12 months. This community-driven effort is essential to making the project a reality, and we need your help to bridge the gap,” she said in an email to supporters.
So, the group is turning to the community to see if individuals, businesses or groups can help make up the gap.
“Your support — whether through direct contributions, sponsorships, or spreading the word — will play a vital role in restoring this cherished landmark and transforming it into a vibrant cultural space for all to enjoy,” Smith said.
The group has been awarded funding through an Empire State Development Restore New York grant, village of Massena Core of the Community grant, and a Power Proceeds grant from the New York Power Authority. She said the $400,000 will help make up the gap in their $3.2 million project budget.
“It is important to note that these grants are reimbursement-based, meaning no funds have been disbursed to MATA yet. To begin unlocking these awards, MATA first needs to raise the remaining funding and begin work on the next phase. Continued support from individuals will allow MATA to fully take advantage of these awards,” Smith said.
They have also received donations to assist with the restoration efforts, including $60,000 from SeaComm Federal Credit Union, $10,000 from Massena Savings and Loan, and $5,000 from Air Products. They’ve received additional local support from North Country Colocation Services, Massena Elks Lodge No. 1702, Northern Credit Union, American Legion Post 79 in Massena, Peets Jewelers, Trinity Catholic School, Seaway Timber Harvesting, Massena Yoga Studio, and individual donors.
Since purchasing the theater in 2015, the nonprofit Massena Arts and Theater Association has completed asbestos abatement at a cost of $300,000. They’re also working with local architect Brooks Washburn and LaBella Associates to finalize the professional drawings and project documents necessary to put the various project components out to bid.
Plans call for the group to break ground on facade renovation this spring, which will lead to the return of the marquee. Support for the marquee was provided by SeaComm and volunteers that included Mark Dixon, Bill Fiacco and R. Shawn Gray. Professional work was completed by Legacy Auto and Energy Wise Builders.
The focus will turn to interior renovations after completing the facade and marquee work this spring. The organization is aiming to host their first community event in the newly renovated space in 2026.
In the meantime, they’ve launched a chocolate bar fundraiser at Orlando Chiropractic Center, Massena Yoga Studio, BRKK Tees & Embroider, Hairitage House, and Fit As A Fiddle Gym.
MATA is also collaborating with Clarkson University’s MK696 Marketing Research class. Their research will help inform future programming decisions at the Massena Schine Theater.
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