UVW-CWA Opens Relief Fund for Game Workers in Need

The United Videogame Workers-CWA (UVW-CWA) has launched the Game Worker Hardship Fund. The program offers grants of up to $5K USD to game workers in the United States (U.S.) and Canada. It is aimed at people affected by layoffs or related financial hardship since January 2024.

Both union and non-union workers are eligible to apply.

Applicants can request grants of up to $1K or between $1K and $5K. The money can be used for rent, groceries, medical bills, childcare, utilities, transportation, and other essential expenses. UVW-CWA clarified that workers who were not directly laid off can also apply if they experienced linked hardships.

How the Game Worker Hardship Fund Application Works

Applications must be submitted through an online form. A team of volunteers will review each request. Applications will be prioritized based on financial need and urgency. Applicants may also be asked to provide supporting documents or take part in a follow-up discussion.

Explaining the process, UVW-CWA said volunteers will "review your application and prioritize it based on need."

The union stated that responses will be sent in batches. It also noted that submitting an application does not guarantee funding. People who receive assistance may later be invited to share their experiences for a public impact report planned for later this year.

Funding Comes From Union Dues and an Upcoming Charity Bundle

UVW-CWA reported that the hardship fund is financed through membership dues. However, applicants do not need to join the union to receive support. The organization also confirmed that 100% of proceeds from an upcoming itch.io charity bundle organized by Necrosoft Games, the developer of Demonschool, will go toward expanding the fund.

The union also announced that AI-generated applications will be rejected. It encouraged applicants to also seek other available support, including SNAP, unemployment benefits, and COBRA, if they need additional financial assistance.