Teamsters Help Haiti

In the wake of a massive earthquake that struck the island nation of Haiti on January 12, General President Jim Hoffa is urging Teamsters everywhere to donate to the Teamsters Disaster Relief Fund.

Money from the fund will assist victims of Haiti’s earthquake, which left tens of thousands homeless and killed an untold number of victims.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this terrible tragedy,” Hoffa said. “I encourage all of our members to open their hearts to the people of Haiti and give what they can. Donations from Teamsters will no doubt help save lives.”

Some of those affected by the tragedy include Teamsters and relatives of Teamsters. Teamsters and family members of Teamsters visiting or living in Haiti at the time of the earthquake have not been heard from since the natural disaster occurred.

“The situation in Haiti is dire and victims of this tragedy need our support now,” said Tom Keegel, General Secretary-Treasurer.

Teamsters Take Action

Teamsters around the country have already begun contributing their time, talents and resources to assist victims. Among those taking action include Kalitta cargo pilots from Local 1224 in Wilmington, Ohio, who will fly 96 tons of freight to neighboring Dominican Republic from Europe.

Local 769 in Miami, which has many members of Haitian decent, is helping charities collect items that will be shipped to Haiti. The local is also working with two faith-based charities to raise cash donations. A list of needed items can be found here.

“As citizens of America and members of the Teamsters Union, we are all blessed,” said Teamsters Local 769 President Mike Scott. “It is time to help those who are not.”

Robert Bouvier, President of Teamsters Canada, has also asked his 125,000 members to help out earthquake victims in Haiti by making donations to a charity that benefits those in need.

“It is at times like these that our members, and Canadians as a whole, demonstrate a great deal of solidarity,” Bouvier said.

Where to Donate
Donations to the Teamsters Disaster Relief Fund should be sent to:
Disaster Relief Fund
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
25 Louisiana Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20001

Donations to Local 769’s supply drive should be sent to:
Teamsters Local 769
12365 West Dixie Highway
North Miami, FL 33161