Job-threatened workers at Providence Care donate to the less fortunate during the holidays

KINGSTON, ON, Dec. 16, 2013 /CNW/ - Despite facing layoffs, workers at Providence Care are digging deep in their pockets to help the less fortunate over the holiday season.

Workers at the facility, members of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union Local 431, are donating $1,000 to a local homeless shelter and $1,150 to the community food bank.

OPSEU President Warren (Smokey) Thomas is proud that these members are still putting the people of the community first.

"Even though their own futures are uncertain, these members are putting their money towards the services that the patients of Providence Care will need in the community," Thomas said. "OPSEU members can be selfless while losing their jobs."

Last August, Providence Care told staff they would be eliminating as many as 80-90 jobs to meet their target reduction of 60 full-time equivalent positions by next spring. This represents almost one in five jobs at the hospital.

SOURCE: OPSEU

Kyle Jones, Local 431: 613-583-5953