Workers at East Metro Youth Services join the union – UFCW 175

Toronto – April 19, 2018 – Workers at East Metro Youth Services in Toronto are the newest members of UFCW Canada Local 175 after recently voting to join the union.

Employees at the youth mental health and addictions centre approached UFCW 175 due to frustration with a number of workplace issues. Specifically, the diverse group of 120 workers wanted a more equitable experience at work and the ability to hold their employer to account. Their existing work environment made it difficult for employees to enjoy and manage their important work in the Toronto community. 

In addition, job security, discrimination, favouritism, health and safety issues, wages, and benefits all made the list of concerns that were brought to the union by these workers.

“The workers at East Metro decided to take control of their future by joining our great union,” says UFCW 175 Organizer Ricardo Bocanegra. “It was a true honour to work with such a devoted group of individuals, and I’m proud to see them join our union family,” he adds. 

There are 77 full-time and 43 part-time staff at East Metro Youth Services, who together form the new bargaining unit. The members will now start working towards a first collective agreement. In addition, they will benefit from UFCW 175’s strong presence in the industry, as they join several thousand health and community care members working in the Health, Office & Professional Employee (HOPE) sector. 

“Congratulations and welcome to your union,” says Shawn Haggerty, the President of UFCW Canada Local 175.

UFCW Local 175 represents over 70,000 members across Ontario in almost every sector of the economy. To learn more about UFCW 175, visit their website.