Email from President Bob Blair: Coronavirus Update: UFCW 227 Actions

March 16, 2020

Dear Union Member

As the public health crisis caused by Coronavirus grips our communities, I wanted to make you aware of some actions your union is taking to help and assist you.

Many members of our UFCW 227 union family are on the front lines making the food and selling the groceries our families and our communities need. You are heroes. Your dedication to your families, your customers and your communities during this incredibly stressful and difficult time is an inspiration to this country.

Employer Discussions
We are working hard to ensure that all 39 employers we negotiate with are making plans to protect your pay and benefits. We must fight for them to address the changing needs of all of our hardworking members as we confront this crisis. Each union contract and employer are unique. Please know that your Union Representative is your advocate and trusted source of information.

Member Communications
We will continue to create informational materials to distribute through all of the different communications platforms we have available, such as Facebook or email, to help all of our members be aware of actions they should take to keep themselves safe at home and at work. For current CDC guidelines please read this article on our website.

First Responder Designation
If we follow Europe’s path, it is likely grocery stores will be designated an essential service. To ensure that our members in that industry are protected while they serve the public, we are advocating with the state for our members to be designated as “critical first responders” to ensure they have access to testing and other protections. 

Policy Action
We are reaching out to state and local leaders to impact policies that will protect our members personal and economic health. Many members of our union family may face the possibility that their workplace may close. We are advocating for policies that will provide a safety net to these members, such as, Gov. Beshear’s announcement this morning waiving the waiting period for unemployment benefits. We are also reaching out to local officials about the potential future need for the assignment of local police at grocery stores if this crisis accelerates.

If you feel like you can’t work, stay home. Every day will bring new challenges and I want you to know that UFCW 227 is doing everything we can to protect you. Our union family has your back – we are here for you. Thank you for everything you are doing to get our nation through this crisis. As I said at the beginning of this email – you are heroes. God Bless my union family. 

In Solidarity,
Bob Blair
President
UFCW 227