/R E P E A T -- Media Advisory - Unifor partners with Canadian Red Cross for disaster relief in Fort McMurray/

OTTAWA, May 8, 2016 /CNW/ - Unifor is proud to partner with the Canadian Red Cross to support the people of Fort McMurray and its surrounding communities as they respond to the devastation caused by raging forest fires.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the Oilsands, representing over 4,000 workers. Since the evacuation began the union has been working to provide food, shelter and support for Fort McMurray members displaced by the fires. 

"We are so thankful that our members and their families, friends and neighbours escaped the fire zone without injury," said Unifor National President Jerry Dias. "Now we are focusing on aiding both our members and the entire Fort McMurray community as they cope with the evacuation and face the daunting task of rebuilding".

Here in Canada and overseas, the Red Cross stands ready to help people before, during and after a disaster. The Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and throughout the world.

"The situation in Northern Alberta is devastating and the damage to homes, lives and communities is extensive," says Conrad Sauvé, President and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. "Thanks to the generous support of Canadian individuals and organizations such as UNIFOR, the Red Cross will not only be there to support emergency needs at this difficult time, but to also help people as they rebuild and recover."

On May 9, Unifor National President Jerry Dias and Canadian Red Cross President and CEO Conrad Sauvé will announce a substantial contribution to support the disaster relief effort in Fort McMurray.

• What: Unifor & Red Cross Fort McMurray announcement
• Where: Unifor offices, 301 Laurier Ave. W, Ottawa
• When: Monday, May 9, 1:00 p.m. 
• Who:
  • Unifor National President Jerry Dias
  • Conrad Sauvé, President and CEO, Canadian Red Cross

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 310,000 workers.

SOURCE Unifor

please contact Unifor Communications National Representative Kathleen O'Keefe at [email protected] or 416-896-3303 (cell)