PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Months after the city cuts its $131,000 annual contribution to the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, its executive director is reaching out for support.
Sharon Pinkenson, executive director of the film office, said the arts community overall in Philadelphia suffered when the cuts came.
“We really thought we had a good chance to get our funding restored,” Pinkenson said, "but, unfortunately, we did not — nor did any of the arts in any area, which is incredibly challenging and very disappointing.”
Pinkenson said her operation is still alive and currently assisting two TV shows and a movie currently shooting in the area.
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Now the film office has set up a GoFundMe campaign.
“It’s going very slowly. We’re trying to raise $200,000,” she said. “I think we’re at about $32,000 and we’re grateful for whatever people are able to donate.”
She said the film office serves as a one-stop shop for TV and film production companies looking for locations, permits to close streets for shoots, where to find local crafts people to help build sets, local actors and extras, hotels, caterers and restaurants.
Pinkenson said the office generates millions of dollars annually for the economy in the greater Philadelphia area.