Trust Fund

In 1942, the Canadian Picture Pioneers created a separate organization, which would be a benevolent fund to assist those in financial need. In 1947, it became the Canadian Picture Pioneers Trust Fund under Government Registration, operating under the complete separate authority of the Trustees. The Picture Pioneers Trust Fund is a registered Canadian charity, and can issue receipts for income tax purposes.

Assistance provided by the Trust Fund is not looked upon as charity but rather as a means by which the film industry can help each other. The names of those needing help are usually brought to the attention of the Trustees by a friend, co-worker or Trust Fund Liaison and are treated in the strictest confidence.

The Trust Fund helps a wide array of individuals across Canada, including retirees, individuals and families who are in need of assistance. The Trust Fund frequently covers day-to-day living expenses, food, shelter, additional health care costs, dental or optical requirements, wheelchairs, prostheses, and oxygen equipment, among other required items.

Another way that the Trust Fund assists the industry is through its student assistance awards that are given to students in need of financial support and enrolled in full-time studies. Each year, the Trustees receive hundreds of applications from qualifying students requesting financial assistance so they can continue their full-time studies. Click here for more information about the program.

Referring to the intent of the Trust Fund, past Chairman David Ongley once stated: “It is the quality of people’s lives that is the concern of the Pioneers and the Trust Fund – not simply their just getting by.”

If you have any questions about our support programs or how to apply for assistance, contact the CPP Office using the Contact Form on this website.

A gift is a click away

Canadian Picture Pioneers fundraising supports the Trust Fund.  Please remember the Trust Fund also needs your direct financial support by way of your annual charitable donations, funeral “In Memory” donations, estate or insurance beneficiary contributions.

General or In Memory Donations to the Canadian Picture Pioneers can be made via an email transfer or CLICK HERE to download a Donation Card which can then be sent via mail or email to the Pioneer office in Toronto.