November 1, 2017
TO: ALL USW DISTRICT 9 LOCAL UNION PRESIDENTS ON ST. CROIX AND ST. THOMAS
RE: District 9 Disaster Relief Funds and Supplies
Greetings Brothers and Sisters:
Since early September, when hurricanes Irma and Maria created enormous destruction throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands, District 9 Staff, Support Staff and members have been working diligently, collecting funds and supplies, and trying to find a way to provide relief to our union brothers and sisters.
First we were told the ports were shut down and no supplies were going in or out. Then we tried working in conjunction with other parties to get water shipped to St. Croix and St. Thomas to the members and their families only to run into other roadblocks. I say all that to say, we have tried several different scenarios to get aide to our members in need to find obstacle after another in our efforts.
Finally, in consultation with Staff Representative Jerry Jackson, I am happy to inform you that funds and supplies are being sent this week to provide disaster relief supplies to our members on St. Croix and St. Thomas. Those supplies, including water, flashlights, batteries and toiletries, should be available at both District 9 Staff Offices in the near future. Please contact your respective District 9 Staff Office on both Islands to check on arrival and make arrangements to pick these items up, as needed.
The funds and supplies provided by your brothers and sisters in District 9 are separate from and not inclusive with any Disaster Relief Forms submitted to the International Union for assistance in replacing loss from hurricane damage to personal property that is handled through the USW Charitable Trust Fund.
We cannot fathom what our members and the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands are going through. We will continue to work to provide the representation relative to the contracts and our members on the islands while at the same time doing all that we possibly can do in assistance. An injury to one is an injury to all.
Thank you for your membership, perseverance and please know that as we work with you during this most difficult time, we will overcome the hurdles together and everyone is in our thoughts and prayers.
In Solidarity,
Daniel Flippo
District 9 Director