DELTA COUNTY, Mich. (WMZQ) – Over the next few days, Delta County steel workers are going on strike, not against their jobs, but hunger across the southern Upper Peninsula.
Throughout the rest of this week, union members from United Steelworkers Local 21 & The Women of Steel are putting on their annual ‘Strike for Hunger,’ gathering monetary and pantry donations for The Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul of Escanaba.
Coordinator with the Women of Steel, Donna Dams says for over 10 years, they’ve been proud to do what they can to give back to those who need it most.
“We feel that this is much needed in our community,” she said. “We like to do our part to give back.”
This morning began the 3 day donation drive at both Elmer’s County Market in Escanaba (412 North Lincoln Road), and Pat’s Food’s in Gladstone (409 North 9th Street). Last fall brought in over $15,000 from the community, and the picketers hold a goal of raising that bar each year.
“We always try to beat the record,” said Dams. “Everything is split up equally between the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul, and the money raised goes into their accounts at these stores, so they can come in and gather what they need.”
Dams says as time goes on, the need for these donations seems to be more urgent, and that you never know who might be struggling.
“Your neighbors, your friends, family members, each year it seems like more families need more help,” she said. “We try to do as much as we can. No donation is too small, so if you can help us out, we’d really appreciate it.”
Both groups will be outside each location through Saturday evening, from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.
