How Can We Help You Thrive?
CAC exists to help aspiring student artists fuel their creative journey.
CAC Application Guidelines
(Starting January 1, 2026)
CAC is changing the way we process applications. Please read through these guidelines before applying.
How the Application Process Works
CAC will review applications every two months.
There will be six application periods (called “windows”) each year.
If you are approved for musical instruments or art supplies, you can pick them up at our headquarters: 76 Lower Main Street, North Berwick, ME. If your family can’t make the pickup day or doesn’t have transportation, we’ll work with you on a solution. We will no longer drop-ship items to residential addresses; instead, we will ship directly to schools in communities outside our immediate service area or schedule a local pickup.
If You Miss a Window
Don’t worry—your application will automatically move to the next window.
When You’ll Hear Back
We will contact you after each six‑week application window ends. Example: If you apply during Window One, you’ll hear from us between February 15 and 21.
If You’re Applying for Lessons or Workshops
We will contact you during the week of your scheduled pickup date to let you know whether you’ve been approved.
Lessons will begin after the pickup date.
Student Concerts, Performances & Art Shows
CAC will host at least four student-focused events each year. This includes musical performances, art shows, and open mics. In the application, you can request an open mic, art show, or concert at your school or venue.
Emergent Needs
If you need an instrument or art supplies, or a workshop/class is outside of a window, please let us know. In some cases, we can make exceptions.
2026 Application Windows for Instruments & Art Supplies
Window One
Apply: January 1 – February 14
Pickup: Saturday, February 28, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Window Two
Apply: March 1 – April 15
Pickup: Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Window Three
Apply: May 1 – June 15
Pickup: Saturday, June 20, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Window Four
Apply: July 1 – August 15
Pickup: Saturday, August 29, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Window Five
Apply: September 1 – October 15
Pickup: Saturday, October 31, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Window Six
Apply: November 1 – December 12
Pickup: Saturday, December 19, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Important Note
Pickup dates may change. If they do, we will let families know at least five days ahead of time.
CAC reserves the right to process applications outside of each window for special circumstances. Please note this in your application.
Eligibility
CAC serves only students actively enrolled in PK-12 schools in Maine and New Hampshire, ages 5 to 19. We do not discriminate based on race, skin color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, or disability.
Restricted Items
We do not fund the purchase of computers, dance, gymnastics, or culinary arts.
Limits on Funding
Currently, our funding for instruments and art supplies is limited to $300 per student. If an instrument or art supplies total more than $300, please know that we cannot (1) provide more funding than $300, and (2) we cannot send direct funds to students or their families. If the cost is more than $300, you can donate the balance to CAC and we will order the instrument or art supplies if approved.
Funding for K-2 is limited to art supplies.
Your student must be at least 7 years old to apply for instrument/or music and art lessons.
We have a $600 funding limit for families.
We have a one-year limit on music or art lessons. After one year, you will need to reapply. You can continue with lessons if there are no students on our waiting list.
Verification
Please provide the name of a school teacher or administrator (principal, vice principal, dean, or guidance counselor). We will follow up with this contact to verify your enrollment. If you or your child is homeschooled, we will still need the name of a school contact.
Approval Process
CAC reserves the right to approve or deny any application for any reason.
By submitting this application, you agree to all the above statements.
After you apply, please check your email or text for follow-up questions. This may take 7-10 business days.
IMPORTANT: If approved, after you receive your instrument, art supplies, or creative materials, please text or email a photo of the student holding the instrument or art supplies (or something the student created with the art supplies) to 207-251-9196 or info@continuumarts.org. By sending us your or your student's photo, you agree to allow it to be used only for publicity. These photos help us raise awareness and funds for our service programs.
