(Photo: Callie Reed | CC Flickr)
The Golden Lantern Bar, located at 1239 Royal St., has established a GoFundMe page to raise money as it struggles to avoid permanent shutdown due to the COVID-19 business restrictions.
The bar was forced to shutter entirely following coronavirus-related bar closures and the New Orleans city ban on to-go alcohol.
The bar weathered the initial storm, receiving a PPP loan, but only kept the establishment afloat for two and a half months. Much of the funds were spent on making the bar safer for patrons, including the purchases of thermometers, sanitizing stations and other items, according to the bar.
The GoFundMe, which was created on Aug. 12, has raised more than $7,300 out of a $60,000 goal.
Despite the Golden Lantern’s closure, bills still must be paid.
Opening in 1964, the gay-friendly Golden Lantern was the original home of Southern Decadence, according to the bar.
“The reality is, the bills (rent, insurance, utilities, taxes, etc) continue to pour in. Despite being closed, Entergy and SWBNO bills are somehow much higher than usual. Without income or additional resources available, The Golden Lantern is struggling to keep its head above water. With expenses over $20,000+ a month and no income expected any time soon, options are running out.”
Golden Lantern Bar
To donate, visit Golden Lantern Bar’s GoFundMe page.
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