L124 Strike Fund

To support members who have experienced unforeseen economic hardship with non-repayment assistance during a strike.

Guidelines  

  1. Eligibility

    1. Active Participation – The member must be in good standing and actively participating in the strike duties (e.g. picket line, or other duties as assigned by Picket Captain).

    2. Demonstrated Financial Hardship – A personal circumstance that has occurred due to loss of income while on strike

      1. Rent/Mortgage

      2. Utilities

      3. Food

      4. Medical needs

  2. Application Process

a.        Submit the L124 Strike Hardship Fund Application Form.

b.       Provide a full and detailed explanation.

c.        Supporting documentation, i.e. receipts, statements, etc.

d.       Submit required documentation to opseulocal124@outlook.com

3.  Funding Limits and Balances

a.        A maximum of $300 per member during a strike (subject to availability)

i. Exceptions may be approved (with documentation) for additional funding.

b.       Annual budget - Ensure a yearly Strike Fund allocation of $1,000 each year.

4.  Assessment and Review

a.        Applications will be assessed by the Hardship/Strike Fund committee lead steward along with two stewards within the committee.

b.       The committee ensures impartiality and fairness in the decision-making process.

c.        Criteria is based on:

  i.        The severity and urgency of the hardship.

  ii.        The financial needs and availability of other resources.

  iii.       The amount of funding available.

  iv.        If member was previously approved for strike funding.

5.        Disbursement of Funds

a.        Timeline - Funding will be released up to seven business days. In case of emergency, funds will be released within five business days.

b.       Method of Payment – Funds will be provided to the member via cheque in member’s name or in the name of the creditor.

c.        Reporting Requirements – The member may be asked to provide proof of payment.

d.       Priority Consideration – Members with dependents or urgent needs (i.e. eviction notice, utilities shut-off, etc.) will be prioritized for assistance.

6.        Conflict of Interest

a.        Disclosure - Stewards of the deciding committee must disclose any personal relationship with the member and ensure arm’s length relationship.

b.       Fair Distribution – The committee ensures that funds are distributed based on need without favoritism or bias.

c.        A member may request the replacement of a steward on the deciding committee with an alternate if they do not feel comfortable with that steward

By adhering to these guidelines, the union ensures that its strike funds are distributed fairly, efficiently, and in a manner that best supports the members facing financial difficulties.