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IATSE Local 492
Studio Mechanics of Tennessee and Northern Mississippi
Hardship Resources
A collection of resources available to Local 492 members during times of hardship for financial assistance, counseling services, and other programs.
The Behind the Scenes Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization established in early 2005 to create and support charitable programs for the entertainment technology industry. The charity issues grants to entertainment technology professionals in need due to serious illness or injury that may be used for basic living, medical or funeral expenses. It works closely with related industry charities and social service organizations to assist clients to the fullest extent possible. The Foundation raises funds through events, programs and donations.
Another avenue for financial assistance during times of hardship is The Actor's Fund. Although the name can be misleading, assistance is not limited to actors only. Crew members are also eligible for assistance through financial grants as well as a variety of programs. In addition to financial assistance, these programs include social services, career training, parenting resources, senior care, and long and short-term housing.
The TN AFL-CIO also offers several services in their Tennessee Member Assistance Program (MAP). This program was established in 1989 to provide an avenue for affiliated union members to seek assistance. The member assistance staff understands the issues that many employees face today, and that’s why MAP consultations are voluntary, confidential, and available at no cost. MAP provides assistance and short-term, solution-focused treatment for union members or dependents in areas such as stress, work conflict, alcohol or drug abuse, depression/anxiety, marital or couple’s dispute, anger management or grief/loss. If additional help is needed, MAP will help locate resources for ongoing assistance with many referrals being covered by your health care insurance. MAP staff is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Union Plus is a non-profit and the ONLY consumer benefits organization created and endorsed by the AFL-CIO. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for union members and their families, provide valuable benefits and services that strengthen the ties of union members to their unions and contribute funding to the labor movement. Union Plus offers a variety of programs to help you save money, such as discounts on travel, cell phone service, as well as college tuition scholarships.
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