In what may be “happy new year” news for anyone qualifying for the spondulicks, the WGA has announced a fund “to assist members of the industry who are in financial distress as a direct result of the Writers Guild of America strike against the AMPTP.”

If this means you, you might want to check their website, to see about qualifying for said funds. Among the eligibility requirements:

• You have earned at least $6,500 per year in the film or television industry for at least two years of the past five.

• You have lost your employment or are unable to work as a direct result of the WGA strike.

• You have already requested assistance from The Actors Fund or other industry relief funds for which you are eligible

• You are NOT a WGA member. WGA Members are eligible for assistance through existing relief funds. Contact the WGA Strike Fund, the WGA Good and Welfare Fund, the Motion Picture and Television Fund or the Actors Fund directly.

And the approval criteria are:

(1) The financial impact of the WGA strike on the applicant and, if applicable, on his/her family and dependents;

(2) Whether the applicant is in serious jeopardy of losing housing, a car or medical coverage or is facing a similar financial emergency;

(3) Whether the applicant has applied for and obtained relief from The Actors’ Fund, Motion Picture Television Fund or other assistance programs or government/community benefits for which the applicant is eligible.

Does any of this “pertain?”

Then, all good wishes in getting your app through! And you can even check back here to let us know how it goes.

And regardless of the present logjam, a splendid new year to you & yours — wherever and however said splendor unfolds — from all of us at BTL.