Maine Military Authority workers and friends unload the over 1,000 pounds of food collected by members of MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 for workers laid off at the Limestone facility. Workers at the Maine Military Authority rebuild military equipment at significant savings compared to the cost of the U.S. Government buying new equipment. One hundred fifty workers at the facility were laid off in March. Distribution of the donated food will continue on Saturday, May 21, from 10 a.m. to noon at the old Mecon Manufacturing/First Technology Building in Caribou, to coincide with the Caribou City Wide Yard Sale.

Laid-off workers at Maine Military Authority getting

over 1,000 pounds of food, $1,700 in gift certificates for groceries

Members of the Maine State Employees Association, Local 1989 of the Service Employees International Union, are distributing over 1,000 pounds of food and $1,700 worth of Hannaford gift certificates among the 150 Maine Military Authority workers laid off in March.

 

"We had a distribution day last week and many took advantage of the chance to stock their pantry or take the gift cards to purchase later," said Cheri Ouellette, secretary of the union chapter to which Maine Military Authority workers belong. "We are having a second distribution day on Saturday, May 21. We hope to help most of those left who were not able to take advantage (of the first distribution day)."

 

Continuing, Ouellette said, "It's a way of life in Aroostook County to help out others when we can, but to receive it is something else, and all are very appreciative. The employees here at Maine Military Authority are truly thankful."

 

MSEA-SEIU Local 1989 member Irene Chandler helped organize the food drive as chair of the union's caucus that includes workers at the Maine Military Authority. "State employees from Dixfield to Calais to Fort Kent and all points in between, pitched in to help these workers at this difficult time," Chandler said. "It's a small way to show our support as they work to get back on their feet."

 

The distribution day on Saturday, May 21, will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the old Mecon Manufacturing/First Technology Building in Caribou, to coincide with the Caribou City Wide Yard Sale.