What is the AGMA Relief Fund?
In these fraught times, performing artists around the world are under immense economic stress. Singers, dancers, and artistic staff are finding themselves out of work after governmental public safety recommendations are forcing theaters around the world to shut their doors indefinitely. Without income, (and for some freelancers, without health insurance) artists need a place to turn if they are feeling anxious about being able to provide for themselves and their families.
This is where the AGMA Relief Fund comes in. Managed by our artists’ union, the American Guild of Musical Artists, and administered by the Actor’s Fund, the AGMA Relief Fund provides countless services, outreach, workshops, and financial assistance for AGMA members in good standing. “Since its founding in 1945 by prominent artists of the day”, says AGMA president Ray Menard, “the Relief Fund has been helping our members preserve their dignity with compassion and confidentiality.”
If you are a performing artist in need, the AGMA Relief Fund is here to help: whether it’s for a personal or work-related issue, or whether you need help finding elder care, child care, or legal services. There are counseling and workshops available if you need assistance with finding affordable housing or health insurance. And, if you are under economic duress due to lost income from canceled performances, there are grants available to help you cover everything from rent to utilities, from mental health care to medical expenses, as well as other costs of daily living.
Freelance opera singer Abigail Wright suffered a catastrophic injury during an opera performance in 2015. Workman’s Compensation Insurance thankfully paid for the majority of her medical bills, including surgery, but because of her status as a freelancer, she was ineligible for unemployment insurance, and couldn’t work for ten weeks after her surgery.
Thankfully, a friend who had been assisted by the AGMA Relief Fund in the past recommended she get in touch with them. “After I filled out some paperwork and proved my performing-related income,” Abby said, “I had a way to pay my bills during this incredibly stressful time.”
“Although I can’t say I made it through that time without any scars, I managed to pay my rent and keep my head above water at a time when it otherwise would have been truly impossible. They came to my aid with kindness, generosity, and a true empathy that made healing possible for me in every way. I couldn’t be more grateful to the AGMA Relief Fund, and to everyone who has donated to them throughout the years.”
Last year, according to Mr. Menard, the AGMA Relief Fund helped over 300 members “solve problems and make positive changes in their lives.” That number will certainly spike during the coming months, as theater closures drag on, opera and dance seasons come to an unscheduled end, and Broadway stages remain dark. Recently, the CDC recommended cancellations of all events with 50 people or more over the next eight weeks to fight the spread of COVID-19. While this recommendation is prudent and necessary, it puts artists and others in the gig economy in a grim financial predicament. Thankfully, the AGMA Relief Fund is here to relieve some of that stress, and we’re all extremely grateful for that.
The AGMA Relief Fund is a not-for-profit 501© (3) that counts on the generosity of others to assist members in crisis. If you have the privilege of working during the COVID-19 quarantines, and can spare a few dollars, your tax-deductible donation would go a long way to helping your beloved performing artists who provide the world with beautiful music and entertainment get through this extremely difficult time.
Thank you so much for your consideration and for your continued support, not only of the artists of the Metropolitan Opera, but of performing artists all over the nation. We’re all in this together!
Click Here to donate!
Click here for more information on the AGMA Relief Fund (and also for another opportunity to donate).
Click here for AGMA’s collection of COVID-19 resources.
Members of AGMA at the 2019 Labor Day Parade.