Social service workers join the union – UFCW 175

Oshawa, Ont. – November 7, 2025 – Employees at Kinark Child & Family Services in Oshawa have successfully joined UFCW Locals 175 & 633. The organization, which provides autism, child & youth forensic and mental health services employ consultants and instructor therapists many of whom say they feel overworked and undervalued.

In addition to better pay and benefits, workers are seeking enhanced job security, seniority rights, stronger safety protocols, and greater inclusion in decision-making processes.

“Unionization in community services is essential because the people who care for our most vulnerable populations deserve dignity, fair wages, and a real voice on the job,” said UFCW Local 175 President Kelly Tosato. “When workers are empowered, the quality of care improves — and that benefits the entire community.”

“These members have seen the difference that joining a union can make and they decided they wanted better for themselves and their co-workers,” adds Tosato. “We encourage all workers to speak up and make your voice heard by joining the union.”

Read more about the organizing victory at Kinark Child & Family Services.

UFCW Locals 175 & 633 represents more than 70,000 working people across all sectors of the Ontario economy including hospitality and services, health care, retail grocery and pharmacy, food production, meat processing, manufacturing, packaging, and more. To learn more about UFCW 175 & 633 and their outstanding work, visit the local union’s website.

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