Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 776 came together on March 24 to provide food and essential resources to unhoused individuals in the Fort Worth area, despite ongoing contract negotiations for many union members.
The event, known as the District 776 Homeless Drive, is now in its third year and aims to unite union members and their supporters to help those facing hardship. The initiative also received backing from Texas State Senator Taylor Rehmet, who is a member of District 776.
District representatives said that while IAM has a tradition of participating in community service activities both at work and beyond, it is often local unions like District 776 that maintain strong relationships with their communities during challenging times. Eric Meriwether, Business Representative for District 776, said: “Our retired President Paul Black shared something with me during his retirement party that I carry with me always: Never forget where you come from. I’ve always lived by that, and it guides everything I do for our members and our community.”
After distributing supplies at this year’s event, participants celebrated their efforts with classic Texas barbecue. Organizers expressed hope for another successful drive next year.
The annual drive highlights how union organizations can play an important role in supporting vulnerable populations within their communities.
