United Steelworkers union (USW) members from Local 3950 came together in a strong show of solidarity to support communities in Jamaica following the devastation caused by a recent hurricane.
What began as a simple conversation on the shop floor quickly turned into collective action.
After discussing the hurricane’s severity with coworkers, members approached plant management at Assa Abloy Fleming and Baron Metal in Toronto to request space to collect much-needed supplies. With the company’s general manager’s approval, posters listing requested items were posted throughout the plant, encouraging members to contribute.
Over the following days, the plant committee, with the support of coworkers and staff, collected and secured more than thirty boxes of donated goods. On Nov. 27, Fitzroy and Raja, members of Local 3950, along with fellow workers, transported the donation to the Jamaican Canadian Association in North York, where volunteers assisted with unloading and distribution.
In addition to the workplace collection, the Toronto Area Council passed a motion to contribute $5,000 toward hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica, reinforcing the union’s commitment to supporting workers and communities in times of need.
USW District 6 Director Kevon Stewart said the initiative reflects the labour movement’s core values. “As someone with deep roots in Jamaica, seeing this level of support from our members means a great deal to me,” Stewart said. “Steelworkers understand that solidarity doesn’t stop at the workplace or the border. When communities are facing hardship, we step up, we organize, and we take care of one another.”
The efforts are a powerful reminder that union solidarity is built on action. Through compassion, collective responsibility and shared purpose, Steelworkers continue to demonstrate the strength of standing together – locally, nationally and globally.
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