As the scope of the human tragedy has unfolded in Haiti since January 12th’s history-changing earthquake, President John Samuelsen, with the full backing of the Local Executive Board, is ramping up Local 100’s organizational relief efforts.
 
On Jan. 26 he announced a major increase in the union’s financial commitment to the TWU Haiti disaster relief fund. He said the Local’s initial contribution of $10,000 to the fund is being boosted to $30,000, with a further pledge to match member contributions up to an additonal $30,000. “I’m very proud of the way our members have already responded to this terrible tragedy,” said Samuelsen, “but obviously we all have to do more to meet this ever-expanding disaster.” He added that he has set a goal of $100,000 for total organizational and member contributions to the fund.
 
Samuelsen also announced that Marvin Holland, Director of Political and Community Action Development, would coordinate the union’s Haiti campaign. 
 
Those wishing to contribute should make checks out to TWU Local 100 Haiti Relief and mail them to the attention of the Secretary Treasurer’s Office, TWU Local 100 / 80 West End Ave., New York NY 10023
 
Those wishing to contribute in other ways to the Local’s relief effort should call Brother Holland at 212-873-6000 ext. 2063
 
The union will also continue to coordinate with the International Transport Workers Union, the national AFL-CIO, and the New York City Central Labor Council to help maximize labor’s response.
 
Our Political Action department is also in touch with local officials who have ties to the Haitian people and who are also participating in the massive effort to alleviate suffering and restore essential services in Port-au-Prince and the surrounding areas.
 
Our hearts go out to the Haitian people and to our members who have family members in the stricken area. We encourage all union members to do their part to help.