Workers at Ottawa Food Bank join the union – UFCW 1000A

Ottawa – November 14, 2014 – Workers at the Ottawa Food Bank are the newest members of UFCW Canada Local 1000A after voting to join the union earlier this month.

"When workers come together, they can affect great change," says Pearl Sawyer, President of UFCW Canada Local 1000A. "I want to welcome the Ottawa Food Bank members and congratulate them for showing incredible solidarity and strength in achieving union representation," Sister Sawyer adds.

Being treated with respect and dignity in the workplace was a key reason why the Food Bank workers chose to join UFCW Canada. As members of Local 1000A, the workers now feel safe and respected on the job.

"They wanted union representation and they worked towards achieving that together — the Food Bank members did it for each other," says UFCW Canada Local 1000A Organizer Ray Ramkelawan, who led the organizing efforts for the Local 1000A.

Founded in 1984, the Ottawa Food Bank is a staple food relief organization that helps feed 48,000 people a month – 37 per cent of whom are children.The bargaining unit is comprised of workers in the transportation and warehouse departments.