Anyone working in exhibition, distribution, or trade services affected by Hurricane Florence, we are here for you. THE FIVE-YEAR EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY requirement FOR ASSISTANCE haS been waived . Please CONTACT our social workers at (888) 994-3863 OR INFO@WRMAIL.ORG to find out how we can help.

About the fund

The Pioneers Assistance Fund (PAF) serves members of the motion picture entertainment industry (exhibition, distribution and trade services) who are encountering an illness, injury or life-changing event. All assistance is intended to provide support during a recovery or adjustment period and lay the foundation for a lifetime of ongoing success.

To request assistance for financial aid, please call (888) 994-3863, ext. 6003, or email us. A social worker will contact you to set up a phone interview to discuss eligibility and the application process. In most cases, grants can be processed between 3-5 business days after we receive the completed application.

Our assistance fund brochure explains current assistance fund programs and social service consultations:
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Assistance Programs

The Pioneers Assistance Fund provides financial aid to motion picture entertainment veterans of exhibition, distribution and trade services who are encountering an illness, transition or catastrophic event. Skilled social workers confidentially assess the needs and financial difficulties of film industry veterans. Financial aid to support the individual’s health and well being is provided when income and assets are limited. Financial aid is not available to treat alcohol or substance abuse.

To request an application for financial aid call (888) 994-3863, ext. 2390, or email us.

SOCIAL SERVICE CONSULTATIONS

Consultations include:

Comprehensive Care Assessment
Federal/State Benefits Screening
Health Insurance Advice
Elder Care Guidance
Education
Advocacy
Supportive Counseling
Bereavement Counseling

SALAH HASSANEIN MEDICAL GRANT

Temporary financial aid for:

Physician Fees
Diagnostic Tests
Medications
Home Health Care
Physical Therapy
Psychotherapy
Health Insurance

Requires five recent, qualifying years of employment in the motion picture entertainment industry.

EQUIPMENT AID

Temporary grants for:

Hearing Aids
Orthotics
Mobility Aids
Assisted Devices
Home Health Supplies
Bath Safety Aids
Emergency Call System

Requires five recent, qualifying years of employment in the motion picture entertainment industry.

VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION

Temporary financial aid for:

Skill Analysis
Career Counseling
Retraining
Job-Seeking Advice

Requires ten recent, qualifying years of employment in the motion picture entertainment industry.

BERNIE MYERSON EMERGENCY GRANT

Temporary financial aid for:

Housing
Utilities
Food
Burial or Cremation

Requires five recent, qualifying years of employment in the motion picture entertainment industry.

TOM SHERAK PIONEER GRANT

Monthly stipend for frail or disabled low income senior veterans.

This program requires a lengthy career in the motion picture entertainment industry prior to retirement. Applicants must be at least 60 years of age, unless permanently disabled with extenuating circumstances.