Weekly Update: August 3 - August 9

Wildfires

We have several members in the area around Summerland BC who are currently under evacuation from their homes due to nearby wildfires, with at least one member having lost their home over the weekend. The Local office is in contact with members in the area, trying to coordinate assistance where possible. USW District 3 is also assisting as we have several Steel Locals in this area, while the USW Humanity Fund is donating $30,000 to the Red Cross Wildfire Appeal.

It’s heartbreaking to hear the stories coming out of this disaster, and everyone at the Union office is thinking of the affected members and hoping that the situation stabilizes soon.

The BC Evacuee Helpline (1-800-387-4258) is open extended hours 7:30am until 11:00pm.

To access Emergency Support services to assist with evacuation, if you have no insurance or access to basic needs, visit https://ess.gov.bc.ca/.

If you, or anyone you know, requires assistance due to the effects of these wildfires, please email contact@usw1944.ca to let us know how we can help.

In Solidarity,

Michael Phillips
President
USW Local 1944