***MEDIA ADVISORY FOR TODAY AT 5PM***

Despite Employer Threats & Intimidation, Workers Overwhelmingly Approve One-Week Strike

WHY: Approximately 2,500 caregivers working at 15 Upstate Western New York nursing homes overwhelmingly voted to authorize a one-week strike if management refuses to settle a fair contract that protects quality care. For months, the nursing home workers have been fighting for better staffing levels, fair and living wages, affordable health insurance, childcare benefits, and pension improvements. 

After slow progress in negotiations since late February, thousands of caregivers rallied and picketed outside 22 long-term care facilities across Upstate Western New York last month^[1]. Nursing home workers also “marched on the boss” at multiple facilities across Western New York.

Late Friday afternoon, 1199SEIU issued 10-day notices to strike 15 long-term care facilities across WNY.

Now registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nurse assistants (CNAs), housekeeping staff, dietary workers, clerical workers and other nursing home staff are planning to strike for seven straight days beginning on Tuesday, May 20th at 6:00 a.m. at 15 facilities.

The following bargaining units are going on strike:
1. Buffalo Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing 
2. Comprehensive Rehab and Nursing Center at Williamsville 
3. Elderwood at Lockport
4. Elderwood at Williamsville
5. Ellicott Center 
6. Garden Gate Manor
7. Gowanda Nursing Home (excludes Pros/Techs)
8. Newfane Rehabilitation & Health Center 
9. North Gate Manor
10. Ascension Living Our Lady of Peace
11. Absolut Care of Gasport
12. Safire Rehabilitation of Northtowns
13. Schofield Residence
14. The Grand at Delaware Park
15. Williamsville Suburban Care Center

WHO: Nursing home workers, members of 1199SEIU, will be joined by union leadership and community supporters to update the media about the looming weeklong strike at 15 facilities across three counties. 

WHEN: Today from 5:00 PM – 5:20 PM

WHERE: 2421 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214

###

1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East is the largest and fastest-growing healthcare union in America. We represent over 400,000 nurses and caregivers throughout Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Florida. Our mission is to achieve quality care and good jobs for all.
https://www.1199seiu.org

____________________

^[1] Niagara, Erie County nursing home staff organize pickets