Frequently Asked Questions
What is FilmAid's Mission?
FilmAid International uses the power of film an video to reach the world’s most vulnerable commuities with messages that inspire them, address their critical shared needs, and effect social change. In 2005, FilmAid audiences in East Africa totaled over one million.
When was FilmAid founded?
FilmAid was founded during the Kosovar refugee crisis in 1999 by Caroline Baron, filmmaker and award winning producer of "Capote", after she learned the most prevalent problem for the hundreds of thousands of Kosovar refugees was psychological trauma and hopelessness.
FilmAid is a global partner of UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) and works closely with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), UNICEF, CARE, World Food Program and Church World Service, among others.
Who does FilmAid serve?
FilmAid serves individuals and communities suffering the effects of war, poverty, displacement and disaster. Through its film-based programming, FilmAid conveys crucial, lifesaving information on health and social issues. FilmAid screenings, workshops and filmmaking programs provide an innovative way of reaching broad audiences; overcoming literacy boundaries and empowering communities with messages that educate, entertain and inspire hope.
Where does FilmAid work?
Over the past 9 years, FilmAid has brought films for inspiration and information to refugees and displaced people and their host communities in Kenya, Tanzania, Macedonia, Afghanistan and the US Gulf Coast.
Currently, FilmAid has programs in Kakuma & Dadaab refugee camps.
How does FilmAid work?
FilmAid's open air screenings reach audiences of thousands at once. Feature films are preceded by cartoons, a public service announcement, and an educational short.
FilmAid engages communities to shape the messages most needed for their survival and strength. We work with communities to create films and videos in their own voice, and to screen these films in the most impactful and appropriate settings. FilmAid screenings range from intimate discussion of 40 people to large outdoor screenings, reaching thousands at one time.
In addition to psychological relief FilmAid provides information on critical topics such as conflict prevention, human rights, HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence. Screenings are also held in community centers, schools, hospitals and infant feeding centers on such topics as teenage pregnancy, reproductive health, and education for girls.
Issues addressed through FilmAid programs (1999-present):
Health Care
Malaria Cholera HIV/AIDS TB Maternal & Reproductive Health/Family Planning Hygiene, Sanitation & Water Landmine Awareness
Social Issues
Conflict Resolution Peace Building Prevention of Sexual Exploitation & Abuse Girls’ Right to Education Human Rights Repatriation/Resettlement
Distinct from other humanitarian organizations, FilmAid uses the power of film to bring these issues to life through cinematic story telling, transcending language and literacy barriers.
How can you help?
FilmAid is changing lives. There are 33 million forcibly displaced people in the world, 80% of them women and children - you can help make a difference.
Contribute online at www.filmaid.org
or mail your donation to:
FilmAid International
363 7th Avenue, 20th Floor
New York, NY 10001
For more information: info@filmaid.org
or call: 212.529.1088
Your generosity will make a difference in thousands of lives every day!
