As the coronavirus has spread worldwide, production in the entertainment industry has come to a halt, leaving some 120,000 members of the creative community without jobs. In response to this, the streaming giant Netflix has created a $100 million relief fund to support those whose jobs have been affected by this ongoing crisis.
The majority of funds will go towards supporting laid-off crew members, including electricians, carpenters, and drivers, many of whom are paid hourly wages and work on a project-to-project basis.
Additionally, $15 million of the Netflix fund will go to third parties and non-profits that offer emergency relief to out-of-work crew and cast in countries where there’s a large production base. Netflix is currently also working with industry organizations to bolster relief efforts in Europe, Latin America, and Asia, where many of its movies and shows are shot.
While governments are still figuring out what support they will provide to those facing a start economic reality during this challenging time, it’s good to see such companies as Netflix proactively stepping forward to help.
