Support Services
From time to time, union members may find themselves facing circumstances where a little extra support can make a big difference. While the union is here to help however we can, there are also a number of other organizations that may be able to provide you with assistance.
Below, you’ll find information about several of these valuable support resources. They’re designed to be helpful, accessible, and supportive no matter what you may be going through.
And if you know of an organization that isn’t listed here, we’d love to hear about it! Please reach out to Sid Solomon, your Benefits & Support Services Liaison — he’ll be happy to connect.
We’re here to help you find the support you need, when you need it.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
THE ENTERTAINMENT COMMUNITY FUND
Formerly known as The Actors Fund, the Entertainment Community Fund offers a wide range of services to professionals in the performing arts and entertainment industries — including financial assistance, housing support, mental health services, and career counseling. Their programs are open to everyone who works in entertainment, not just actors. When in doubt, just reach out!
Learn more at entertainmentcommunity.org
ACTORS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
ActorsFCU is a nonprofit, full-service credit union created by and for members of the performing arts community. They offer checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and other financial services tailored to the needs of freelance workers.
Learn more at actorsfcu.com
APLA HEALTH (LOS ANGELES)
APLA Health provides free or low-cost medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare to communities across Los Angeles, with a strong focus on LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV. Their board-certified providers offer everything from routine checkups to chronic condition management, and no one is turned away based on their ability to pay. APLA Health proudly serves everyone — regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, HIV status, or insurance coverage — with compassionate, stigma-free care. Learn more at aplahealth.org
BEHIND THE SCENES
Behind the Scenes provides mental health resources and financial support specifically for entertainment technology professionals — including designers, technicians, and scenic artists. Their programs include therapy grants, self-assessment tools, and a 24/7 mental health resource hub.
Learn more at behindthescenescharity.org
FENWAY HEALTH (BOSTON)
Fenway Health provides high-quality, affordable medical, dental, and behavioral health services, with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community and underserved populations in the Boston area. If you’re currently uninsured or facing financial hardship, they can help you enroll in insurance and offer a sliding fee schedule based on family size and income. No one is denied care due to inability to pay, and support is available if you’re having trouble covering co-pays. Learn more at fenwayhealth.org
HOUSING WORKS COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE (NEW YORK)
Housing Works Community Healthcare provides comprehensive medical, mental health, and supportive services to individuals regardless of their ability to pay. With multiple locations across New York City, they serve a diverse community with a strong focus on those living with chronic illness, substance use, and housing insecurity. If you’re currently uninsured, they offer a sliding scale fee program to help make care accessible. Learn more at healthcare.housingworks.org
HOWARD BROWN HEALTH (CHICAGO)
Howard Brown Health is a Chicago-based healthcare organization that delivers affirming, inclusive medical, behavioral health, and social services, with a focus on LGBTQ+ communities and other underserved populations. They provide care regardless of ability to pay and offer a sliding scale fee program based on income to ensure access for those who are uninsured or underinsured. Services include primary care, HIV/STI testing and prevention, hormone therapy, mental health support, and more. Learn more at howardbrown.org
MAZZONI CENTER (PHILADEPLHIA)
Mazzoni Center delivers comprehensive, LGBTQ+-affirming healthcare and wellness services to the Philadelphia community, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. They offer a sliding fee discount program for most services, with costs based on household size and income — making care accessible even for those who are uninsured or underinsured. Discounts can apply for up to 12 months, with a simple reapplication process each year or as circumstances change.
Learn more at mazzonicenter.org
THE MOTION PICTURE & TELEVISION FUND (CALIFORNIA)
MPTF supports film and television industry workers with services including financial assistance, elder care, healthcare navigation, and emotional wellness support. While based in California, many of their resources are available to workers nationwide.
Learn more at mptf.com
UNION PLUS
Union Plus is a benefit program created by the AFL-CIO that offers union members and their families discounts on everyday expenses, financial services, hardship help, scholarships, and more. It's open to all members of participating unions, including USA 829. Learn more at unionplus.org
WHITMAN-WALKER (WASHINGTON, DC)
Whitman-Walker provides inclusive, community-based healthcare and wellness services in Washington, D.C., with a long-standing commitment to serving LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV.. Their Public Benefits and Insurance Navigation Team can assess your eligibility for a sliding fee discount based on income and household size. No one is turned away for inability to pay. Learn more at whitman-walker.org