Nov. 10, 2014
Media Advisory
Contact: Khanh Weinberg
408.921.0098
Union families raise $15,000 for veterans, care packages for troops
Months-long fundraiser ends with Nov. 11 “care-packing party”
SAN JOSE, Calif. – SEIU Local 521 is proud to have led a care package drive for service members overseas and veterans at home. In collaboration with Operation: Care and Comfort and other community organizations, the union set as its goal earlier this fall to put together 521 care packages by Nov. 11, Veterans Day.
In total, with assistance from organizations such the South Bay Labor Council, SEIU 521 Latino Caucus and the South Bay Democrats, the effort raised more than $15,000 in cash and merchandise.
WHAT: Volunteers prepare care packages for service members and veterans
WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
WHERE: SEIU Local 521, 2302 Zanker Road, San Jose, 95131
Whether recipients are active members or veterans in Silicon Valley, SEIU 521 members want to send a clear message that they are here, ready to serve members of our active and retired armed forces.
Santa Clara County workers are among the strongest advocates for vital public services that keep neighborhoods safe and families strong. Accompanying each care package will be a letter from SEIU Local 521 leader Luisa Blue reminding veterans of the vast range of public services available to them, from mental health counseling and employment placement to emergency shelter and support for families of veterans.
Our community thrives when residents, leaders and workers recognize that we are all in this together when it comes to our safety, health and well-being and everyone is invested in our community’s success. The men and women who have served this country are a part of this community, and we stand with them on Veterans Day and everyday.
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The Service Employees International Union is an organization of 2.1 million members united by the belief in the dignity and worth of workers and the services they provide. SEIU is dedicated to improving the lives of workers and their families and creating a more just and humane society. For more information, visit www.seiu521.org
