Chicago Shakespeare Theater Workers Laid Off

This past Thursday, Chicago Shakespeare Theater laid off nearly all of their box office and front of house staff, most of the facilities team, and several members of their production staff (nearly a hundred staff members in total), due to theater closures caused by COVID-19.  We were notified late Thursday night, via mass email, that our roles had been eliminated and we will only be paid for shifts scheduled through March 29th. Several laid off workers have been on staff at the theater for multiple years. We're seeking support to help cover the living expenses of the theater's laid off guest service associates as we try to seek other work in the middle of this national crisis.  

Many of us are living paycheck to paycheck, and can use any and all help you're willing to offer. We plan to raise money through March 31st, at which point all funds donated will be divided evenly among all laid off workers who wish to be included, with a small portion of funds set aside for emergency situations that laid off any staff member may request to access. Because we are non-union workers and were already underpaid, we are especially in need of help. 

Thank you so much for whatever you're able to give, even if it's just your well wishes.