Nearly 60 workers at Autumn Lake Healthcare at Southgate in Carneys Point, New Jersey, have chosen UFCW Local 152 to be their voice on the job!

The unit consists of licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), laundry aides, and activity assistants at the assisted living facility.

UFCW Local 152 has represented the dietary workers at Autumn Lake Healthcare at Southgate for more than thirty years. Over the summer, the shop steward at the facility contacted Local 152 organizers because other workers were interested in unionizing. It was clear that the dietary workers had many advantages due to their collective bargaining agreement, and these workers were ready for positive change.

“I chose to support the union because I believe every employee deserves to be treated fairly, with respect, and equally,” said Jermeda Adams, a CNA at Autumn Lake at Southgate. “A union gives us a stronger voice to stand together, address problems, and hold management accountable. When we stand together, we have a strong voice and a better chance of making things better for everyone.”

In an immense display of solidarity, the workers at Autumn Lake of Southgate quickly united and signed authorization cards, which proved significant interest in union representation to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Due to the overwhelming majority of signed authorization cards, the company agreed to a “voluntary card check” allowing these workers to move direct into contract negotiations preparate mode.

Moving Forward

In the coming weeks, UFCW Local 152 will meet with the workers of Autumn Lake Healthcare at Southgate to establish a negotiations committee (which includes a group of workers from the facility) and formulate contract proposals.

Congratulations to these sixty Autumn Lake Healthcare at Southgate workers! Your hard work has paid off, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Local 152 family.

Finally, congratulations to Organizers William Pitts, Tony Melendez-Mott, and SPUR Tim Daly for empowering these workers and helping them go through the organizing process!

Why not you?

Are you interested in learning more about how UFCW Local 152 can help you and your coworkers? Learn how to start a union or email Director of Organizing Mike Thompson at mthompson@ufcwlocal152.org today!