Lately, The Actors’ Fund of Canada has been doing more of its charitable work in Toronto than any other city, according to executive director David Hope. Production has been down, and ACTRA went on strike early in the year.

‘Things are starting to recover a bit now, but that certainly had an impact on the amount of assistance that was delivered in Toronto,’ says Hope.

The fund, which next year will mark its 50th anniversary, provides emergency financial aid to performers and behind-the-scenes crew in theater, film, TV, music and dance — thanks to the ‘goodwill of the industry,’ says Hope. It is supported by donations from within the industry and does not draw government money.

For its 50th, the fund is reaching out to the industry to get more exposure and make connections with its leaders. ‘Our goal is to become more connected, respected and supported than it ever has been before,’ says Hope, by stressing how valuable it is to the industry and its members.

The fund was founded by six members of Toronto’s theater community in 1958, and gives over $400,000 a year to those in need, though demand is rising.

‘In the last six years, what we’ve delivered on an annual basis has doubled. With the aging population and with the baby boomers hitting the age where their income may be declining, they may need more assistance in terms of health-related costs. I can only see the need increasing,’ says Hope.

‘People work in the industry because they wouldn’t want to do anything else,’ he adds. ‘There are much easier ways to make a living than in this business.’

For more information see www.actorsfund.ca.