Dear John,
Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the still unfolding wildfire disaster all over Southern California. So many of our CFT families and communities are facing unimaginable losses, and even more are facing disruptions to their daily lives: evacuations, lost power and closed campuses. Unfortunately, we have had a few members lose their homes. Thankfully, we have not heard of any loss of life. For many, it will be days before life returns to normal. Sadly, for some, there will be a new normal.
First, please make sure you and your families are safe as some of you are living in these danger zones.
Here are some additional resources to help you navigate this crisis.
CFT has an emergency relief fund for members who have suffered catastrophic losses. If you have lost your home because of the fires, please email us at [email protected] with your name and contact information. Please also reach out to your local union, as we are keeping in contact with them during this time.
For those who want to help your sibling union members, please consider donating to the emergency relief fund we have set up specifically for the CFT members who are victims of disasters. Contributions of any amount will go a long way in helping our union siblings get through such a crisis.
Donate here to the CFT California Fires Disaster Fund.
Should you have questions regarding school closures or your contract, please reach out to your local president, and we will work with your local to provide guidance and fight for your rights.
Thank you for the work you do in education. We also thank the first responders and those who are helping in this time of crisis to make sure people are safe during this emergency.
Please stay safe and access the resources you may need.
In unity,
Jeff Freitas
