Since Harry Houdini’s initial donation to assist ailing magicians, the Houdini Fund has grown thanks to the generosity of S.A.M. members, their families, and friends. As financial management practices evolved, the trustees strategically invested these contributions to grow the fund’s principal, ensuring greater long-term support for those in need.
Today, the Houdini Fund provides confidential, monetary grants—not loans—to magicians and allied artists, including clowns, face painters, ventriloquists, storytellers, jugglers, and stilt walkers, who require financial assistance due to illness or injury. These grants help cover medical expenses that insurance may not fully address, such as co-pays, prescription medications, mobility aids like wheelchairs and oxygen, and other essential healthcare costs.
Applicants do not need to be members of the Society of American Magicians to qualify, and all requests are handled with strict confidentiality. The Houdini Hospital Fund extends additional support by covering medical-related costs beyond standard insurance coverage, including transportation, outpatient care, and comfort assistance.
To ensure compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), a physician may be contacted to verify medical necessity. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, we encourage you to reach out.
Interested in applying for a non-medical general grant? Please see information about the MEF Grant Program.