The Katzenbergs are stepping up for film and TV workers who were impacted by the L.A. wildfires.
Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg are donating $5 million to the Motion Picture and Television Fund, which has been supporting requests for aid with financial assistance for rent, house payments and medical bills. It has also helped to navigate insurance needs for working and retired industry members, as well as providing access to resources with other organizations.
“The wildfire devastation is unlike anything Los Angeles has ever faced, and we must act urgently to help people in immediate need,” said Jeffrey Katzenberg in a statement. “Marilyn and I are heartbroken for our friends and colleagues whose lives have been turned upside down, especially in the industry that has meant so much to us, and we hope our contribution can help provide comfort and resources in this moment.”
“As we’ve seen over the past few years, MPTF has been essential to supporting our community through the pandemic, strikes, and job contractions,” added Casey Wasserman, a longstanding MPTF board member and fundraiser. “We’re so thankful to Marilyn and Jeffrey, and many others, whose extraordinary generosity enables these programs to continue for our industry.”
The Katzenbergs were honored at MPTF’s 100th anniversary celebration with the Silver Medallion in 2022. Inspired by mentor and MPTF benefactor Lew Wasserman, Jeffrey Katzenberg served on the MPTF Board of Directors and as the Chair of MPTF’s Board of Governors and was a champion for organization for over three decades as a donor and fundraiser, including spearheading the The Night Before parties.
Katzenberg was also awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, an Oscars statue, by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2012.
Those affected by the wildfires can call MPTF’s intake line at 323- 634-3888 or visit mptf.com/wildfirerelief for more information.
