Consider donating to Sandy victims

Lines for fuel in NYC.

Power outages make it hard to get specific information about our Teamster brothers and sisters suffering the effects of Sandy. We hear that every single Teamster local in New York City is without power, and so are many in New Jersey. At least one local will be dark for a month.

Plans are being made for relief efforts, but they aren't final yet. We will share them when we know what they are. We do understand that two Teamster tractor trailers are lined up to deliver food in the region.

Many members can't get to work as there is a terrible fuel shortage and the subway hasn't been running. Some members may lose their jobs if their places of work were wiped away by the storm.

Residents of Queens have have been without heat for three days, and heating oil is in short supply. Some power is restored, but millions of homes and businesses still have no electricity. The National Guard was called out to rescue victims, distribute food and water and prevent looting. Some people lost their homes and all their possessions.

We understand the best thing you can do right now to help these disaster victims is to make a monetary contribution. You can donate money to the Teamsters Disaster Relief Fund. It is a 501 (c)(3) charitable fund to help disaster victims. You can donate online with a major credit card here. It takes only moments (but be sure to create an account if you haven't already).