During its April 3 meeting, GSU’s Joint Executive Council (JEC) adopted a motion that GSU make a substantial donation on behalf of all members of the union in recognition of the extraordinary strain on community organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In response to the JEC’s motion, GSU staff researched organizations that cover approximately the same territory as GSU’s Locals. GSU’s finances were also reviewed and it was determined the union could afford an $8,000 donation at this time and still have room for more if needed down the road. As a result, at an April 8 meeting of GSU’s Executive Committee, a recommendation to donate $8,000 to Food Banks of Saskatchewan was approved, subject to the final decision being made by the full JEC.

“A donation to Food Banks of Saskatchewan was determined to be the most efficient and effective way for GSU to support community pandemic responses,” said GSU president Jim Brown. “Food Banks of Saskatchewan is the umbrella for 32 community food banks throughout the province, and the territory represented approximately covers the communities where GSU members live and work.” 

JEC members voted and approved the donation with no opposing votes. Accordingly, GSU will ask that Food Banks of Saskatchewan distribute the donation as 32 donations of $250 to each of the community food banks under its umbrella. GSU will also make a $250 donation to the Chilliwack, BC food bank on behalf of Local 9 (Trouw Nutrition).