An Urgent Appeal to help Support Disaster Relief in Haiti
January 20, 2010 at 1:09 AM
Haiti has been hit by the first large earthquake in 240 years leaving an estimated 3 million Haitians homeless and without access to basic needs. Sadly, the death toll is growing.
This is a moment in which your solidarity is of critical importance. Already, across the country, many CUPE Locals including Local 500 have pledged donations to Haiti. The magnitude of this tragedy means those donations must continue. From rescue to aid to restoration, Haiti needs our help.
During this period, CUPE members can play an important role in promoting a sense of solidarity throughout their workplaces. If you or any of your co-workers are planning to make a donation to assist those in need, please consider the following:
The Canadian Labour Congress is setting up a portal with the Red Cross for individual, online donations. Funds received will be distributed to Haitian unions through the Trade Union Confederation of the Americas; disaster relief through the Red Cross; and relief and reconstruction initiatives through OXFAM and the Humanitarian Coalition. Each donation will be matched by the federal government.
The CLC portal is live now, and can be found at www.redcross.ca/CLC
I would encourage all Local 500 members to take this opportunity to lend them your support.
Thank you.
In solidarity,
Mike Davidson
President, CUPE Local 500
