Flood Support Letter to Local Unions from UAW President Rory L. Gamble

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

On May 19, two dams in mid-Michigan failed, leading to massive floods that devastated families in that area. Over 11,000 people were evacuated, and thousands of homes were destroyed. There is always a difficult road to rebuilding after this kind of tragedy, but it is even more challenging to do so in the age of COVID-19.

The two United Way chapters in Michigan covering Gladwin and Midland Counties have asked for help from UAW members. They are looking for donations to distribute to the victims of the flooding.

Below is a list of immediate needs. Please note that the United Way’s Labor Participation Committee is also looking for a semi-truck and driver to help transport goods. UAW Local Union 898 (Ford) has graciously provided a truck to assist with pick up at one location, but there are two additional locations that need pickups (Livonia and Warren). Please give as you can and continue to remain safe.

IMMEDIATE NEEDS

• • Cleaning Supply Items and Kits
    
    • Examples: buckets, bleach, sponges, gloves, surface wipes, etc.
  • Restoration kits
    
    • Examples: brooms, shovels, buckets, large trash cans, large trash bags, gloves, etc.
  • Personal Hygiene Items and Kits
    
    • Examples: shampoo, soap, towels, disposable razors, tampons, diapers, sanitary pads, deodorant, toothbrush/paste, etc.
  • Household items
    
    • Examples: dish soap, laundry detergent, fabric sheets, towels, toilet paper, paper towels, etc.
  • Nonperishable foods
    
    • Examples: snacks, cereal, canned good, rice, boxed meals, etc.
  • Personal Protection Equipment
    
    • Examples: face masks, hand sanitizer, gloves, etc.
  • Gift Cards (in denominations under $50)
    • • Grocery gift cards (examples: Meijer, Kroger, Walmart, Family Fare, etc.)
      • Gas only gift cards
      • Retail stores (Kohl’s, Target, Amazon, etc.)
      • Restaurant gift cards

BIG ITEMS—NOT AS IMMEDIATE, FUTURE NEED

• Washing machines, dryers
• Dehumidifiers
• Hot Water Heaters
• HVAC
• Building materials
• Box Fans

DONATIONS CAN BE DELIVERED TO:

Locals that want to donate to the relief efforts of the flood victims should coordinate with Beth Prince of the Midland County United Way at (989) 400-5001. This is for all donations, perishable or non-perishable food items and all non-food items too.

Locals that want to donate money can use this link:

https://www.unitedway.org/local/united-states/michigan/united-way-of-midland-county

The drop off location is:

Tri-City Airport
Hanger #7
8382 Garfield Rd.
Freeland, MI 48623

Thank you.

In solidarity,

Rory L. Gamble
President
International Union, UAW