Labour supports the United Way

In the News
November 21, 2012 –

Letter to the Editor: Labour supports the United Way

The Kingston and District Labour Council is once again very proud to support the 2012 United Way Campaign. We are pleased to be able to continue working in partnership with the United Way to build a strong, caring and vibrant community.

We in the Labour community have a tradition of working to improve our society. It was Labour that fought for such things as Pensions, Medicare and Employment Insurance benefits. This tradition of building better societies extends to labour’s long partnership with the United Way as more and more of us are turning to United Way agencies as we struggle through difficult times.

The annual United Way Campaign is doing well with almost $2.8 million raised, about 83% of their goal of $3,350,000. Your contribution will be the key to their success.

The organized labour community has come out strong with already $18,026 for the campaign and many countless hours of union members donating their time to help on events or to canvass in their workplaces. Union locals such as CUPE 1974 and 1302, ETFO, OPSEU 483,443,465 and 432 and USW 343 have already demonstrated their participation and commitment to this year’s United Way annual campaign and they are to be commended for their efforts.

The United Way is one of the most efficient and effective ways to support our community. Each dollar we contribute helps sustain a network of vital services right here in our own area. I urge all affiliates, union locals and community members to support this year’s campaign. It will mean that when you or a family member, a neighbour, a friend or someone you may never know finds themselves in need of help, a United Way agency or program will be able to respond.

Your gift is more than a donation – it is an investment in the community we all call home.

We in the labour movement speak of solidarity and the strength of many, and I am sure that this principle can serve the United Way well if our whole community pulls together to raise the $3,350,000 that it needs to continue its good work.

Thank you all for your past support and let us work now to raise that money. As the United Way says, “Change starts here.”

Lisa Marion, president, Kingston and District Labour Council

Source: Kingston Whig Standard