Front line staff at the Dusk to Dawn Resource Centre, a night drop-in for street youth operated by Family Services of Greater Vancouver, have become the youngest group of workers to join the Hospital Employees’ Union (CUPE).
“We’re honored these 16 young people chose HEU to stand with them — not only in their efforts to create a fairer working environment for themselves, but in their day-to-day work to improve the health and well being of youth in Vancouver’s inner city,” said HEU spokesperson Zorica Bosancic.
HEU’s newest members, whose employment requires them to be age 26 or under, provide a unique range of front line services for street youth including access to basic services, information, peer counseling, referrals and support. Many have previously lived on the streets themselves.
Although the vote to join HEU was held June 13, the ballot box had been sealed in response to employer objections regarding the certification. It was opened and ballots counted yesterday following an oral decision from the Labour Relations Board on July 3.
The Dusk to Dawn workers join HEU members from St. James Community Service Society, Central City Lodge, and the Downtown Eastside Youth Activities Society who also provide services in Vancouver’s inner city.
-30- Contact: Patty Gibson, communications officer, 604-456-7007 (direct); 604-328-7393 (cell)