Motion Picture Industry Benevolent Society
A HELPING HAND WHEN YOU’RE IN NEED.
“The Society helped me get back on my feet”
“I can tell you my stress levels have decreased since the MPIBS made me a beneficiary”
“It is always a comfort to know that industry people do care”
Those are just a few of the comments from MPIBS beneficiaries over the past twelve months.
WHAT IS THE MPIBS?
It’s your benevolent society. Founded in 1931 by people working in the motion picture industry, the Society provides financial and emotional support to currently employed, or retired, members of our industry – exhibition, distribution or production – who have fallen on difficult times and have a genuine need.
WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM?
The Society relies on donations from industry enterprises and individuals and has been particularly encouraged by the increasing number of film production companies and personnel, who have made regular donations over the past few years. However, as generous as these contributions are, we must increase the current level of annual donations in order to meet the continuing call on the Society’s funds.
WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF SUPPORT PROVIDED BY THE MPIBS?
There is no set yardstick or formulae. It all depends on the circumstances of each individual. In addition to individual needs, the MPIBS provides annual “Winter Comfort” and “Christmas Cheer” payments to beneficiaries.
HOW DOES THE SOCIETY ASSESS AND SUPPORT BENEFICIARIES?
Assessments are undertaken in the strictest confidence by the MPIBS Chairman of Investigation & Relief, who recommends to the MPIBS Council a level of support appropriate to the particular needs of the individual. Financial assistance only supplements government pensions, and may include a quarterly subsidy for gas, electricity and telephone. The MPIBS can also provide ‘in kind’ support by way of essential medical aids, such as wheel chairs or breathing apparatus, replacement washing machine, heaters and even TV sets.
HOW LONG DOES THE ASSISTANCE LAST?
For as long as is needed. Beneficiaries are reviewed carefully and confidentially every 18 months to 2 years to ensure that there has not been any significant change to their circumstances. Depending on how they are going, their relief payments can be increased, decreased or left at existing levels.
The ASSG strongly endorses MPIBS and asks you to donate generously so the Society can continue its important work helping our industry colleagues in their times of need. Visit the website here…
HOW TO DONATE
There are various ways you can help us to support our industry colleagues in need. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Whether you make a one-off donation, or donate every month, we greatly appreciate your generosity.