Worker Resource Guide
This page will be updated with links to resources and important information regarding our local Hurricane Harvey relief effort. Please check this page regularly for the latest news from the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation.
Last Updated: September 25, 2017
RESOURCES FOR UNION MEMBERS
- This Saturday, September 30th, attend our Post-Harvey Resource Fair! This resource fair is a one day event to provide services and support for working families impacted by Hurricane Harvey. We will have representatives who can provide resources and advice in the following areas: Housing, Mental Health, Legal, Health and Nutrition, Veterans Services, Disaster Unemployment Assistance and more.
- Apply for aid from the Texas Workers Relief Fund. The Texas Workers Relief Fund is a 501 c (3) disaster recovery fund for qualified Texas union members and their immediate families.
- Apply for a Union Plus Disaster Relief Grant. If you are a union member who participates in certain Union Plus programs and have been affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Union Plus Disaster Relief Grant program
- AT&T is offering unions and CLCs free Android phones, with no contracts, at a severely discounted monthly rate if purchased in bulk. Unions could give out phones to 25 members/officers for $500 plus taxes per month. See the flyer in the link for more information.
- Is your local union interested in setting up your own relief fund for members? Here is a checklist of steps to take to make sure you cover your bases for legal and accounting purposes.
- Unite Here Local 23 has drafted a comprehensive guide on resources for Hurricane Harvey Relief.
OTHER KEY RESOURCES
- The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering Disaster Assistance Loans. You are able to apply even if you do not own a small business. Click here for a fact sheet in English or in Spanish. (This letter from FEMA also explains that is you are contacted by SBA after applying for FEMA assistance, you should fill out and submit the application.)
- Apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. The Texas Workforce Commission page offers information and resources for employers seeking workers or jobseekers searching for employment or other support services.
- Get Help from FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by filling out the online application.
- Click here for the Texas Working Families Disaster Relief Resource Guide provided by the Texas AFL-CIO.
- The City of Houston Mayor’s Office of New Americans' guide provides detailed information about the types of federal, state, and local disaster-assistance services available and highlights services available to all Houstonians impacted by the storm. Also available in Spanish and in Vietnamese among other languages.
- Mostyn Law has provided fact sheets on how to move forward with insurance claims and home rebuilding post-Harvey. You can access their information and resources here.
- Lone Star Legal Aid has resources available on their website aimed at informing working families about their legal rights after a disaster. Fact sheets are available here in English, Spanish, Vietmanese and Chinese.
WAYS TO HELP
- The Texas Workers Relief Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable fund overseen by the Texas AFL-CIO that provides direct help to union families in need.
- Visit the Red Crossfor a list of sheleters and to sign up to volunteer.