Annette Bening, recently named the new chair of the Entertainment Community Fund, has recorded a video message for those in the industry who may be affected by the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike as well as the SAG-AFTRA strike that just went into effect.

Recorded July 11, as the SAG-AFTRA negotiations were still underway, Bening explains, "As our community once again faces challenges and an interruption in work, I just want you to know that the Fund can help. If you or someone you know is affected by the current work stoppage and needs a hand, please reach out to us. We can provide emergency financial assistance to those in need to cover basic living expenses including rent, medical care and grocery bills." Watch the complete message in the video above.

READ: SAG-AFTRA Actors Officially On Strike After AMPTP Negotiations Fail

Since the WGA strike began, the number of people reaching out to the Fund for assistance has doubled compared to the seven months prior. As of June 30, the Fund has distributed more than $1.1 million to more than 675 film and TV workers, helping to cover basic living expenses, including rent, medical care, and grocery bills.

SAG-AFTRA represents approximately 160,000 actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, voiceover artists, and other media professionals.

The Writers Guild of America, the joint efforts of The Writers Guild of America, East and The Writers Guild of America, West, represent writers working in television, film, radio, and online media.

The Entertainment Community Fund, founded in 1882, is the national human services organization that addresses the needs of people who work in performing arts and entertainment with services focused on health and wellness, career and life, and housing. For more information, click here.