The Saint Paul Regional Labor Federation’s annual holiday fundraising drives, sponsored by our nonprofit Saint Paul Labor Studies and Resource Center (LSRC), delivered much-needed support to area families in need this winter. 

The LSRC’s Labor of Love – Sponsor a Family drive collected over $10,200 in donations, used to purchase gift cards from union grocery stores. LSRC staff distributed gift cards to three local agencies: Catholic Charities, Sponsor a Family MN and Jewish Community Center. Local union members who have accessed support through the LSRC’s Emergency Fund also received gift cards. 

The LSRC’s Jean Jones Initiative, an annual winter-clothing drive coordinated by the AFL-CIO Community Services Labor Community Action Committee, raised $2,450 in donations from local unions and union members. Proceeds were used to purchase 72 coats, 14 hats, 9 scarves and one pair of boots.  

Regional Labor Federation President Kera Peterson delivered the winter clothing to the Saint Paul Public Schools Title I program Jan. 5, for children whose families are experiencing homelessness. 

“Thank you to everyone who donated to our holiday fundraising drives,” Peterson said. “At a time when so many families are facing hardship, unions and union members are extending a helping hand.”