Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1332040
J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1 | P E R S P E C T I V E 1 9 N E W S Where There Is a Need - Assisting Workers in a Pandemic B Y D O O N E R , A S S O C I A T E N A T I O N A L E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R During the coronavirus crisis, the challenges faced by those throughout the entertainment industry have been significant. After months without work, many found themselves, for the first time, searching for assistance to pay their utilities, rent, or just to put food on the table. ADG members are fortunate to have a number of organizations dedicated to helping workers in their time of need. These organizations have held food drives and distributed millions of dollars of financial assistance, providing reassurance that when there is a need, there is someone to lend a hand. The IATSE took swift action in appropriating funds to assist members in need. Knowing the need would be great, the General Executive Board acted as early as March 17, 2020, to commit 2.5 million to three entertainment charities—the Actors Fund for Everyone in Entertainment, MPTF and the Actors Fund of Canada. In announcing the move, IATSE International President Matthew D. Loeb stated, "These charities have been assisting and supporting IATSE members and entertainment industry workers for a very long time. They understand the needs of these workers and are perfectly situated to act as our partners to help those experiencing hardship caused by the current health crisis." Those in need of financial assistance should apply directly through one of the charities. Their need will be assessed and, if they meet the qualifications, they will receive a check that can help them get by. For those with continuing need, a second round of assistance may be available 5 days after the first. Workers in California should visit MPTF.org for information while those in other parts of the country should go to ActorsFund.org Our union did not stop there. They also formed the Coronavirus Active Response & Engagement Service (IATSE C.A.R.E.S.) to connect members with each other and with the union. These connections allowed those who need help with issues such as going to the store to pick up food or medicine to receive assistance from someone in the IATSE family. This effort is all about members helping members, even if what they need is someone to talk to while