Bernie Sanders' Campaign recently announced it would rally donors for coronavirus relief. Last week, The AGMA Relief Fund was named in the second wave of the call for donations, among a handful of groups “providing critical support during this crisis.”

For seven days, Bernie Sanders supporters were encouraged via text message, email, and social media interaction to contribute what they could, noting that donations (unless the donor stated otherwise) would be divided evenly between The AGMA Relief Fund and nine other charities.

Thanks to this effort, The AGMA Relief Fund saw over $181,000 in donations enter the Fund. This influx comes at a time the Fund needs it the most, with the number of requests for assistance in the last two weeks eclipsing what the Relief Fund had seen in the last three years combined.

"Thank you, Senator Sanders, for your recognition and support of the performing arts and artists,” said Ray Menard, AGMA President and AGMA Relief Fund Trustee. “Your advocacy for the health and well-being of workers sets a great example of leadership in this time of crisis. Your supporters have made an immediate difference in the lives of so many AGMA artists."

Any AGMA member in good standing, or on honorable withdrawal, who has a financial emergency may apply for financial assistance through the AGMA Relief Fund. Grants are awarded on a case-by-case basis, based on need.

Due to the devastating toll COVID-19 has taken on AGMA members, AGMA Relief Fund Trustees have temporarily doubled the cap of financial assistance available to members. Additionally, to best serve artists, the AGMA Relief Fund application process has been moved completely online, making the process more efficient.

The AGMA Relief Fund depends on the generosity of many to assist our members in need. If you would like to donate, please visit here.