UFCW 832 members at Trailblazers, who voted to unionize in November 2023, have now voted in favour of ratifying their first collective bargaining agreement.
“With first contracts, it’s essential to establish a strong foundation from which to advance in future bargaining,” says Phil Kraychuck, union negotiator. “Our bargaining committee was extremely diligent in ensuring we addressed the members’ reasons for unionizing and establishing a strong contract that’s on par with others in the sector.”
Some highlights from the two-year CBA include:
- Increased wages,
- Language to ensure that funding the organization receives for wages goes to wages, and
- Availability to bank sick time and expand use of sick time.
UFCW 832 represents 27 direct support workers at Trailblazers in Steinbach, who work for day programs that offer adults living with disabilities the opportunity for personal development and community involvement.