The IAM Disaster Relief Fund Needs Your Support

The IAM Disaster Relief Fund is seeking donations to help those impacted by natural disasters such as wildfires, drought and storms.

The program has helped provide fast financial assistance to hundreds of members in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. In almost all cases, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund has been able to provide monetary aid to recipients faster than FEMA, Insurers or other aid programs.

Currently, more than 600 IAM members throughout East Texas, Florida, Louisiana and Puerto Rico have collected relief checks through the program, with more on the way.

The request for donations follows a year that saw multiple natural disasters in 20 states as well as the Caribbean and the US Virgin Islands. Notable on the list are the ongoing crises in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria and severe flooding in East Texas and Louisiana caused by Hurricane Harvey. In addition to storms, wildfires are sweeping across several states, including California.

The IAM Disaster Relief Fund is providing IAM members invaluable assistance with food, bills and medical expenses – things that are not normally provided for with insurance policies. IAM Members may apply for assistance by contacting any Local Lodge officer, then filling out a quick form and supplying photos of any relevant damages. If approved, checks are usually available within two weeks. For those experiencing difficulties with postal service, the checks can be hand-delivered by an IAM representative.

The IAM Disaster Relief Fund is made possible thanks entirely to generous donations from the membership; nothing is funded with dues. Those who can donate to the program may do so by visiting GoIAM.org online.

Administered by General Secretary Treasurer Dora Cervantes, IAM Chief of Staff Joe Tiberi, and General Vice President Sito Pantoja, among others, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund is one of the best run financial aid programs in the labor movement.

In addition to the IAM Disaster Relief Fund, IAM members may also seek help through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP provides confidential help to those who are struggling with personal issues such as stress, financial turmoil and substance abuse, among a wide range of other services. If you or someone you love needs help from the EAP, please contact any shop steward or member of your Local Lodge. IAM141 members may find an EAP Representative at IAM141.org. EAP information can be found at “EAP” under the “Departments” tab.