Homes First Society, Local 540 – Bargaining 2010
OPSEU members in Local 540 Homes First Society have been in bargaining since December 2009.
Homes First workers vote 93% in favour of a strike mandate
October 19, 2010 – Homes First Society workers, members of OPSEU Local 540 have voted 93% vote in favour of a strike mandate. Local 540 members are facing major concessions from the employer including cuts to all top ups, sick leave and personal days. More Members packed a meeting last night and expressed outrage at the employer’s audacity in demanding outrageous concessions while staff have seen a steady decline in their income over the last ten years.
“This agency used to support its workers and now we face a hostile employer who insists on demeaning our work,” said bargaining team chair Lin McInnes. “This show of strength tonight demonstrates that members know when to say enough is enough!”
Homes First workers provide supportive housing and shelter services to the poor and marginalized in at 15 locations in Toronto.
The bargaining team is set to meet again in conciliation on Monday October 25.
OPSEU L. 540 Homes First members leaflet Board of Directors Meeting
June 1, 2010 – Members of the Board of Directors of Homes First Society were met by OPSEU supportive housing workers at 90 Shuter. Members handed out leaflets, reminding the employer that providing supportive housing to some of Toronto’s most vulnerable citizens is crucial work, to be valued and supported.