Hey, Jude-Law Supports Equity's Falat Basket Project

Jude Law
photo: Carmel Vargyas

Jude Law, currently starring in HAMLET On Broadway didn't question whether "to be or not to be" supportive of Equity's Stephen J. Falat Holiday Basket Project. He is.

Now in its 24th year, the Basket Project gathers a network of volunteers to deliver holiday gifts to brighten the season for people in the New York area who are living with AIDS. All merchandise is new and has been donated by corporations as well as individuals.

This year, more than 3,000 colorful shopping bags filled with clothing, CDs, candy, toiletries, and more, will be brought to over 20 hospitals, AIDS hospices, pediatric AIDS centers, and HIV community services.

The Project started in 1985 when actor Stephen J. Falat visited some patients at St. Luke's Hospital, bringing his personal donation of holiday gifts. The next year, he organized the activity through Equity and 150 gift baskets were donated.

Mr. Falat passed away from complications from AIDS in 1991, and the Basket Project has been proudly continued in his memory. Members of Equity's Stephen J. Falat Basket Project Committee are: Arne Gundersen, Chair; Joanne Borts, Austin Colyer, Jeanne Lehman, Maureen Moore and Jean-Paul Richard.

Volunteers, Donations Needed

Donations of suitable merchandise and financial contributions may be sent to Actors' Equity, 165 West 46th Street, New York, NY, Attention: Falat Basket Project.

Drivers are also needed on Saturday, December 12 and Saturday, December 19, starting at approximately 9 a.m. at the Equity office.

To volunteer to help fill the bags or deliver them, or for further information, contact Anne Fortuno, Project Coordinator and Assistant to the President, (212) 869-8530, ext. 409.