The World Harvest Food Bank in Arlington Heights has become a beacon of support for Hollywood writers and actors currently on strike. Offering a helping hand during the challenging times of the double strike involving both the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the food bank is generously providing free groceries worth hundreds of dollars to members who show their union membership card.
Glen Curado, the owner of World Harvest Food Bank, expressed his empathy for those affected by the prolonged strike. As a gesture of solidarity, he opened the doors of the food bank to union members on the day following SAG-AFTRA's official alliance with WGA on picket lines. In a heartwarming move, Curado allows them to fill their grocery carts with any items available.
Kristina Wong, an Instagram influencer, played a role in convincing Curado to extend this support to actors and writers. The strike, which began in May with the WGA, has created immense pressure not only on the striking individuals themselves but also on the entire industry, affecting everyone from on-set workers to businesses reliant on entertainment spending.
Other funds, such as the SAG-AFTRA Foundation's Emergency Financial Assistance funds and the strike funds from the WGA, are also available to aid those affected by the ongoing double strike.
While the strike is undoubtedly challenging for all parties involved, both SAG-Aftra and WGA believes that withholding their labor is the most effective way to negotiate a fair and sustainable deal. Despite the hardships faced throughout the industry, the support from initiatives like the World Harvest Food Bank serves as a reminder that solidarity can make a significant difference in tough times.
The World Harvest Food Bank is located at: 3100 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90019. They are open Monday-Saturday, and closed on Sunday.
Photo provided courtesy of Andrew Ge: @thisisge
