The Actors Fund has raised $14 million to help those in the industry who have been left jobless. The organization is still 30% short of the more than $20 million needed in the short-term to support its COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund.
“Emergency financial assistance is by far the greatest need at this time,” the Fund said in a recap of its relief efforts. As of Monday, it had provided nearly $4 million to 3,282 individuals in need. The emergency fund currently is screening and processing more than 200 assistance requests a day, and is providing an average of $250,000 in assistance every day. To put this in perspective, the Fund normally manages about 60-70 per week.
The Fund also said in its recap:
“The performing arts and entertainment community faces an unprecedented challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic. With film, television, theater, dance, music and opera productions shuttered for weeks, thousands of professionals in these fields have been abruptly cut off from their primary – and, often, secondary – income sources without any opportunity to make a living. Episodic workers in the entertainment community rely on sideline careers in the hospitality industry, as educators, and even as dog-walkers – leaving actors, screenwriters, stagehands, dancers, designers and directors in crisis as restaurants close and students and office workers are required to shelter at home.”
Since June 8, 1882, The Actors Fund has been here to support everyone in entertainment. In this time of uncertainty around COVID-19, we’re still here for you. To assist everyone who works in performing arts and entertainment across the country, we’re collaborating with our community to help navigate these challenging times. Since March 18, 2020, The Actors Fund has distributed emergency financial assistance to more than 2,800 people in our industry. This money is helping people cover basic living expenses, such as food, essential medications, utilities and more. If you or someone you know needs help, visit the official website.