Latest News

Steelworkers Humanity Fund contributes $20,000 in response to humanitarian emergency caused by earthquake in Myanmar

April 8, 2025
2 people standing and watching demolished buildings

TORONTO – The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is donating $20,000 to Oxfam-Québec to support its appeal for the humanitarian emergency following the recent earthquake in Myanmar.

Last week, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, causing widespread destruction. Estimates now put the official death toll at over 2,900 people, with thousands more injured and displacing 1.6 million in the central and northwest parts of the country.

Prior to this catastrophe, Myanmar was already facing turmoil, trapped in a civil war that has displaced around 3.5 million people. Despite the earthquake, the military junta in power has persisted with operations against armed insurgent groups, leaving little resources for relief and rescue operations.

The Steelworkers Humanity Fund will contribute $20,000 to Oxfam-Québec to respond to the basic needs of those affected by this major disaster, including providing drinking water and sanitation, food and hygiene kits including menstrual hygiene products.

“The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is committed to supporting the humanitarian efforts in this time of crisis,” said Marty Warren, USW National Director and President of the Steelworkers Humanity Fund. “We stand with the people of Myanmar and are hopeful that this contribution, made possible by the continued generosity of Steelworkers across the country, can bring some relief to those who need it most.”

Founded in 1985, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund is a registered charitable organization that focuses primarily on development projects and emergency aid in developing countries, but also supports Canadian communities. USW members contribute to the fund through clauses negotiated into collective agreements. In some cases, employers make matching contributions to the fund.

For more information

Marty Warren, President, Steelworkers Humanity Fund, 416-544-5951
Guillaume Charbonneau, Executive Director, Steelworkers Humanity Fund, 416-544-5944, gcharbonneau@usw.ca
Kim Hume, USW Communications, 416-553-2421, khume@usw.ca

Photo credit: Thu Zar Lwin/Oxfam

Join our newsletter

Recent news

Highland Valley Copper

Steelworkers at Highland Valley Copper issue 72-hour strike notice

October 21, 2026 | Media Releases

KAMLOOPS, B.C. – United Steelworkers union (USW) Local 7619 has issued 72-hour strike notice to Teck’s Highland Valley Copper (HVC) operation near Logan Lake, B.C., following unsuccessful negotiations to reach a fair collective agreement. The notice was served Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 6:30 p.m., with the union preparing for potential strike action if an agreement […]

Featured image for Building worker solidarity across North America in uncertain times 

Building worker solidarity across North America in uncertain times 

October 20, 2026 | News Articles

The jobs of thousands of USW members have been plunged into uncertainty due to U.S. tariffs, outsourcing and offshoring. In 2025, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund (SHF) has supported initiatives that help build union-to-union solidarity, which is critical to ensuring workers have a voice.   Over the years, the USW has supported the efforts of the Mexican […]

USW District 3 Logo

Steelworkers urge governments to invest in Alberta workers following vote to remain in Canada

October 20, 2026 | Media Releases

Scott Lunny, United Steelworkers Director for Western Canada, released the following statement following the Alberta referendum vote: “Albertans have made their voices heard. They want to remain part of a strong, united Canada. Now it’s time to put division behind us and get back to work building a better future for working families. “It’s time […]