In wake of fire, UFCW urges help for families

http://www.milwaukeelabor.org/in_the_news/article.cfm?n_id=0078

LOCAL 1473 ASKS FOR DONATIONS FOR PATRICK CUDAHY WORKERS

On July 6th 2009, the five alarm fire continued to blaze at the Smithfield owned, Patrick Cudahy plant in Cudahy, Wisconsin. The United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 1473
(UFCW), represents approximately 1,400 Patrick Cudahy workers at this location. It will require days to assess the extent of the damage to the buildings on the site.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the workers and their families at the Patrick Cudahy plant and for the safety of the firefighters. We will work closely with Smithfield management in order to minimize the impact of this fire on our members and their families,” said Local President John Eiden.

City officials evacuated the area surrounding the plant during the extensive blaze. Newspapers report that the union workers won't be paid in the interim as the plant assesses damages.

As the workers wait for the plant reopening, UFCW Local 1473 has established a hardship fund and is accepting donations to help the Patrick Cudahy workers and their families.

“Local 1473 has a long and proud history of coming to the aid of fellow brothers and sisters in the Labor Community. Today we ask that fellow union brothers and sisters and community members to help our members and their families in the aftermath of this tragic event; in their time of need,” said Eiden.

Just a week before the fire,UFCW members were a major component as unions fed the homeless and needy in a special barbecue dinner at St. Benedict the Moor Church Downtown.

If anyone wishes to make a monetary donation to the UFCW – Patrick Cudahy Worker Relief Fund to help the workers and families at the Patrick Cudahy plant, make checks payable to Patrick
Cudahy Workers Relief Fund care of UFCW Local 1473. The Union is also accepting
non-perishable food items.

The address:
Patrick Cudahy Workers Relief Fund
UFCW Local 1473
2001 N. Mayfair Rd.
Milwaukee, WI 53226