TORONTO – “The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is doubling our commitment to food banks in 2020,” said Ken Neumann, President of the Steelworkers Humanity Fund and Canadian National Director for the United Steelworkers (USW).
“The COVID-19 pandemic and its economic disruption will affect the most vulnerable and poorest in our communities in every part of Canada and we must collectively take steps to ensure they are supported. To do our part, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund (SHF) is immediately contributing $220,000 to 112 food banks and community food centres so that they are better prepared for the impact of COVID-19. By making this contribution now, we can assist these community-based organizations as they address the health and safety implications of COVID-19 as well as the economic fall-out,” said Neumann.
The immediate contribution of the SHF will be in addition to the annual contributions the SHF makes in November of each year in communities where members of the United Steelworkers live and work.
“Outside of Canada, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workers in the supply chains of Canadian companies and Canadian-owned mines is a serious concern. We call on Canadian companies to ensure that they also protect workers and their communities in their operations and supply chains outside of Canada. As the situation develops, and as the extent of global economic disruption becomes more apparent, the Canadian government must be prepared to do its part in a co-ordinated international effort to ensure that workers and their communities here and abroad are not abandoned,” added Neumann.
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, employer contributions are negotiated for the fund.
Ken Neumann, President, Steelworkers Humanity Fund, 416-544-5951
Doug Olthuis, Executive Director, Steelworkers Humanity Fund, 416-859-9953, dolthuis@usw.ca
Bob Gallagher, USW Communications, 416-544-5966, 416-434 2221, bgallagher@usw.ca
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