AWA holds annual community BBQ in Virgil

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Virgil, Ont. – August 11, 2016 – Migrant agriculture workers from across the Niagara region recently gathered at the Agriculture Workers Alliance (AWA) centre in Virgil, Ontario for the AWA's annual community barbeque.

Over 400 workers attended the annual festival and enjoyed a fun-filled day of music, dancing, and laughs, with barbecue and other food provided by UFCW Canada Local 175 & 633.

At the gathering, workers had the opportunity to participate in workshops on a variety of topics, including WSIB and parental benefits. Attendees also received information on health and safety issues.

In addition, the workers were joined by faith-based community leaders who held a religious service for those in attendance. A soccer tournament and other games provided participants with a much-needed break from their long hours of work.

Students Against Migrant Exploitation (S.A.M.E.) also donated gift bags with food and non-perishable items, and raffle prizes from local wineries and community partners – including bikes and gift cards – were well received by the farm workers.

"We continue to advocate for improved working and living conditions for the men and women who grow and harvest our food," says Stan Raper, national co-ordinator of the AWA. "Events like this are an opportunity to share our gratitude for the tremendous contribution that seasonal agriculture workers make to our community.”