COVID-19 Update from the SAG-AFTRA Foundation

March 13, 2020

Dear SAG-AFTRA Artists, 

In an effort to best protect our staff and members from the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), we’re announcing the temporary closure of ALL in-person programs and facilities in both New York and Los Angeles. Our staff is transitioning to working remotely. Health and safety remains a priority for the Foundation, and we encourage best practices until we can reopen in a more safe and secure environment for all.

Where We Go From Here:

  • We are committed to maintaining our community by shifting many of our services online. In the days to come, we will create ways to increase digital outreach so that we may continue to offer many of our programs and resources remotely. We will be in touch shortly with a revised schedule for March, and a dedicated pursuit to meet the needs of our community as best as we’re able to during this difficult time. In the interim, please connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram and subscribe to the Foundation’s YouTube channel to access a wealth of educational and inspirational content available to you already. 
  • Now, with hundreds of productions around the country shutting down, many of our fellow SAG-AFTRA artists are staring at an uncertain future and will face greater hardship than usual. Our Emergency Assistance program is available to provide urgent financial support to SAG-AFTRA members and families affected by Coronavirus, whether it is health or work-related. 
  • We fully expect to see an increase in calls for assistance in the coming days and weeks.  Please help us support fellow performers in need by making an IMMEDIATE CONTRIBUTION to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. Your gift will help make sure that we can support those of us who have bills to pay, kids to feed, and medical expenses to cover. Thank you in advance for your support.
  • SAG-AFTRA Foundation encourages you to consider self and community care. This includes:
    • Thoroughly washing your hands for up to 20 seconds
    • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth
    • Using hand sanitizers when soap and water are unavailable
    • Practicing safe spaces in public
    • Avoiding handshakes, high-fives, or hugging
    • Coughing/sneezing into your elbow or tissues, with a proactive disposal plan
    • Remaining at home if you’re not feeling well
    • Contacting a health professional or clinic if you or someone close suspects infection

Lastly, unforeseen challenges offer opportunities to not just look after ourselves, but to help each other as best we can. The Foundation has been there for SAG-AFTRA members for 35 years, and we will continue to provide you with the vital safety net that you rely on. We will also continue to build and support our community in new ways. Please stay connected with us, and we’ll stay connected with you.

We thank you for your understanding, and extend our wholehearted well wishes for your continued health and safety.

Your,

SAG-AFTRA Foundation