PEMBROKE, Ont. – It has been over a month since Renfrew County Ontario Works employees, members of Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 4989, have been unable to provide vital services to their community and they have decided to do something about it.
On June 14, CUPE 4989 members will be collecting donations on the picket line for St. Joseph’s Food Bank, a local charity that supplies food and supports to help with other basic needs. Bring a donation, and it will get you passed the picket line!
“Everyone has been so supportive. Helping those who struggle in our community remains a priority for us and we decided that we would try and do something to give back, said CUPE 4989 President Ghyslaine Turgeon. We got creative and agreed that in exchange for a donation, we would open up the picket line.”
CUPE 4989 members are encouraging supporters to bring food items (dry and canned goods) as well as personal care products and will accept cash donations. St. Joseph’s Food Bank opened its doors in January 1986 and is a non-profit organization staffed by volunteers who serve clients in Pembroke, Petawawa and outlying areas.
Ontario Works employees in Renfrew County have been on strike since May 10, 2012.
For more information, please contact:
Amy Parker, CUPE National Representative: (613) 735-3500
Marjorie Savoie, CUPE Communications: (613) 864-9924