The Comedy Store Sets Comedians Assistance Fund With MPTF

EXCLUSIVE: The Comedy Store announced today that they have partnered with the Motion Picture & Television Fund to create the Comedians Assistance Fund, which will provide financial assistance and social services to comedians with roots at the legendary club.

The Comedy Store, headed by CEOPeter Shore, will provide funding under a two-year grant and, in turn, the MPTF will be supporting the initiative with a full-time social worker dedicated to the comedian community. The fund will provide emergency financial assistance, counseling and referrals, healthcare and insurance guidance, senior care, among other benefits. More information about the Comedians Assistance Fund can be found at MPTF.com.

The announcement was in the works prior to the death last month of Mitzi Shore, Peter’s mother, who took over the club in 1974 from founder Sammy Shore. The club became the birthplace for a generation of comedians who began their careers on the Hollywood nightclub’s stage. It eventually reached legendary status and is known as the world’s best all stand-up comedy nightclub.

“Our mother possessed a special quality of being able to develop talent, but was also incredibly nurturing,” Peter Shore said. “She cared deeply about the individual needs of the artist and for many comedians, it was their first time being accepted by anyone. Our mother spent her entire adult life caring for comedians.”

He added, “We are thrilled to partner with MPTF, an organization that shares our commitment to continuing our mother’s legacy by helping us foster a culture of caring to members of our Comedy Store family. She would be so proud!”