THE AFC

Through compassionate and confidential support, the AFC helps Canadian entertainment professionals maintain their health, dignity, and ability to work. The AFC expresses the community’s goodwill by helping entertainment professionals when they are most vulnerable due to injury, illness, or other personal hardship.

What does the AFC do?

  • Provide short-term support (usually about one month or minimum payment).

  • Help with immediate costs (due very soon or recently overdue) that otherwise could not be paid.

  • Help with basic costs of living or emergency medical or dental needs.

What doesn't the AFC do?

  • Provide loans; all aid is given as charitable assistance

  • Assist with debt payments, income taxes, or educational costs (see our application form for more information about what kind of assistance we can provide)

  • Provide ongoing, recurrent, or long-term support or top-up income during unemployment.

Every day help

  • In addition to emergency financial aid, the AFC offers programs, services, learning opportunities, and events to support everyone who works in Canadian performing arts and entertainment – on stage, on camera, or behind the scenes. Get help in your everyday life through our one-on-one support, peer groups, the Navigator assistance service, workshops, industry events, resources, and more. Click HERE for more information. 

How it works

  • Fill out a form with information about the emergency, employment, and financial details

  • Mail, fax, or e-mail it to us with documents that confirm the situation (see AFChelps.ca for examples)

  • The AFC’s Board of Directors will review the request and decide if and how we can help.

  • If assistance is approved, we will provide cheques directly to creditors.

The Reel Friends Plan


By joining the Reel Friends Plan, you become part of a community of industry professionals supporting each other in difficult times. Here’s why you should sign up:

  • Impactful Contributions: Payroll donations are small and only occur when you’re working.

  • Community Support: Whether you give 0.5%, 3%, or more, you contribute to a better future for all industry members.

  • Tax Benefits: At the end of the year, you will receive a tax receipt for the total amount of your payroll donations.

  • A Dedicated Safety Net: Many workers aren't eligible for EI, making The AFC the primary industry support during tough times. Supporting The AFC ensures our community thrives.

Sign up by clicking or tapping on the button below: