After Superstorm Sandy devastated our state three years ago, AFT and AFTNJ worked to identify members who had been impacted and assist in recovery. We supported the efforts of local food banks and provided information and referrals to the organizations providing direct assistance to families impacted by the storm.
The union elected to provide direct financial support to those who suffered monetary damages due to the storm when their homes or vehicles were damaged. More than 125 members applied for assistance and more than 100 of those applications were approved to provide some financial relief to members affected by the storm. “While we realize the amount we offered would not pay the lion share of bills incurred, we hoped at the time having a quick infusion of funds made life somewhat more bearable,” said AFTNJ President Donna M. Chiera.
In October 2015, the AFTNJ Executive Board approved additional support in the amount of $250.00 for any member who continues to suffer hardships due to Superstorm Sandy. These funds will be available to any full member of an AFTNJ affiliate or an AFTNJ retiree. Fair representation fee payers are not eligible to apply. Losses are considered per household, not by member; each household should submit one request.
To apply for this support, please provide a brief narrative of the hardship you experienced and/or are still experiencing as a result of the storm. If you were among those who received assistance from AFT/AFTNJ in the past please indicate so we can refer to your original application.
All narratives should be sent to:
Krista Sweeney, Assistant to the President, AFTNJ, 629 Amboy Ave., Suite 301, Edison, NJ 08837, fax to 732-661-1776 or email.
Requests must be received by January 6, 2016 for review by a subcommittee of the executive board on January 13, 2016. Please include all contact information including a non-work email, phone number and mailing address.
If you have any questions contact our office at 732-661-9393.
