While the government itself was ill-prepared for last Friday’s shutdown, Unite Here Local 23 was among the local unions that were ready. In preparation for what could have been a lengthy government shutdown -- and with the threat of another shutdown in early February -- Local 23 invited the Community Services Agency to train its staff on available resources and how best to prepare their members for being out of work. Staff was trained on the steps members should take to prepare, including: sticking to a budget, using health and prescription benefits, communicating with creditors, and taking advantage of Union Plus programs. Local 23 staff also learned about CSA’s Emergency Assistance Fund, which provides up to $300 for eligible union members to help meet basic needs during times of hardship. "We know that planning for times when we are out of work should be a part of our daily financial habit, but that’s not always easy,” said Assistant ED Sonte DuCote. “That's why the information, tips and resources that the CSA provides are so critical." For more information about shutdown prep and the Emergency Assistance Fund, contact Kathleen McKirchy at [email protected] or Sonte DuCote at [email protected].
photo: CSA Asst. ED Sonte DuCote with staff from Unite HERE 23; credit Kathleen McKirchy
photo: CSA Asst. ED Sonte DuCote with staff from Unite HERE 23; credit Kathleen McKirchy