New York
Workers at Catholic Health nursing homes in Buffalo and Kenmore hold informational pickets
Nearly 200 union workers at Catholic Health's McAuley Residence in Kenmore and St. Catherine Labouré in Buffalo, without a contract since July 30, picketed over staffing, wages and childcare benefits.
Key facts
- WNY Labor Today reported on September 17 that 1199 SEIU-represented employees at two Catholic Health nursing homes, McAuley Residence in Kenmore and St.
- Catherine Labouré Health Care Center on Main Street in Buffalo, held informational pickets that week.
- Bargaining for nearly 200 workers began in May; both sides agreed to one extension, which has expired, and the workers have been without a contract since July 30.
What happened
WNY Labor Today reported on September 17 that 1199 SEIU-represented employees at two Catholic Health nursing homes, McAuley Residence in Kenmore and St. Catherine Labouré Health Care Center on Main Street in Buffalo, held informational pickets that week. Bargaining for nearly 200 workers began in May; both sides agreed to one extension, which has expired, and the workers have been without a contract since July 30.
The workers include certified nurse assistants, licensed practical nurses, unit clerks, activity, dietary and housekeeping aides and maintenance staff. The union says they are prioritizing staffing, competitive wages and benefits, including a childcare fund to help recruit and keep workers. Talks were set to resume October 2. WNY Labor Today is a labor news outlet.
What it means for families
An informational picket is not a strike, and care continues. For families, contract talks are a reminder that staffing is the main driver of daily care, and a fair thing to ask about.
For example: if your mother lives at one of these homes, you can ask the administrator whether any changes to staffing or visiting are expected while talks continue, and who to call with concerns.
Quick answers
Why did Buffalo and Kenmore nursing home workers picket?
The workers include certified nurse assistants, licensed practical nurses, unit clerks, activity, dietary and housekeeping aides and maintenance staff. The union says they are prioritizing staffing, competitive wages and benefits, including a childcare fund to help recruit and keep workers. Talks were set to resume October 2. WNY Labor Today is a labor news outlet.
What to do this week
- If your relative lives at an affected home, ask the administrator how care and staffing are being maintained during contract talks.
- Note the names of the aides who regularly care for your relative, so you can tell if staffing changes.
- Report any care concerns to the New York State Department of Health or the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.
Sources
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