Costume Industry Coalition Relief Fund

As an actor, I do extensive work on my character development. But it only fully comes together when I can finally wear my character’s clothes. Costumers are my favorite people. Well them and lighting professionals. While I have been unemployed and feeling sad, the costume professionals have used their downtime to find countless ways to continue helping others. It began in March when costumers went to work making masks for those on the front line and beyond. Now, these heroes have formed the Costume Industry Coalition Relief Fund.

Costume Industry Coalition Relief Fund: Who

The Costume Industry Coalition (CIC) was initially formed in May amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The CIC includes over 50 independent businesses and artisans in the New York City area that create and supply costumes for the entertainment industry. The CIC’s immediate goal was to act as a united front to ensure the future of the costume industry as a vital part of the entertainment industry worldwide. In fact, the CIC website lists a Six Point Action Plan to help members and affiliates survive “The PAUSE”.

Costume Industry Coalition Relief Fund: How To Help

Six Point Action Plan

1 Connect with local and state politicians to generate awareness of our contribution to the economy and promote rent postponement or forgiveness, along with mortgage and tax relief for landlords.

2 Connect with stakeholders in the entertainment industry to remind them of our contributions and to seek assistance so we can be ready when they reopen. 

3 Get a seat at any table where any other performance-related Union is negotiating about the reopening of NYC.

4 Prepare a comprehensive shop safety plan in line with CDC, OSHA, and NYC guidelines to create industry-wide shop standards.

5 Compile transition information for our employees to assist them as they become unemployed for an undetermined time.

6 Seek financial support for Members and Affiliates facing financial hardship.

Costume Industry Coalition Relief Fund: Goals

Since the CIC are truly overachievers and heroes they have now launched an emergency relief campaign with a fundraising goal of 4.5 million dollars. In fact, the CIC is offering a matching challenge up to $100,000 through September 25th. That means any donation received from now until September 25th will be matched dollar for dollar.

The CIC’s fiscal sponsor is The Artisans Guild of America (AGA). They are a non-profit dedicated to perpetuating the American tradition of the artisan workroom.  All donations will be tax-deductible through the AGA. Your donation to the CIC Relief Fund will be used to cover rent, employee health insurance, and utilities. Funds will then be distributed to Members in need through an independent application process. These relief funds will enable Members to keep their doors open until production resumes.

Costume Industry Coalition Relief Fund: The Future

Yes, the entertainment industry will eventually reopen and the Costume Industry Coalition wants to still be around when it does. So do I! Along with Manhattan Wardrobe Supply, we are deeply grateful for all our friends and customers at the CIC have done and are doing to keep our industry alive! Thank you!

Click here to go to the CIC website to learn more or make a donation.

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