On Wednesday, April 22, more than 400 members at four United Methodist Communities overwhelmingly voted to ratify a new union contract! Congratulations to the workers of UMC at Bristol Glen in Newton, NJ, Collingswood Manor in Collingswood, NJ, Pitman Manor in Pitman, NJ, and The Shores in Ocean City, NJ! This is the first time since organizing the individual facilities that all four will be under a single master contract.

United Change

All members will receive an immediate, across-the-board wage increase, as well as annual wage increases each year for the life of the three-year agreement. In addition to general wage increases, the longevity increase to base salary for senior employees was also increased, the weekend incentive program was memorialized, and the shift differential for second shift was doubled. Affordable health benefits were maintained.

Two new programs were introduced with this contract. The Preceptor Program, a training program available to LPNs, and the Lead Certified Medication Aide, available to CMAs. Both programs give members in these departments an opportunity to earn more through their leadership and expertise. In addition to these programs, the Employer has agreed to provide tuition reimbursement for members pursuing a degree.

Finally, language was added for members to voluntarily make weekly contributions to Local 152’s Active Ballot Club and the Bryan D. Ross Foundation, the Local’s charity organization helping members defray the cost of catastrophic injury or illness. Bereavement leave was also expanded.

Strides to Success

Congratulations again to these members! This monumental contract could not have been possible without the tenacious union negotiating committee. This included President Ross, Bargaining Representatives Chad Brooks and Peter White, Director of Field Services Peggy Kelly, Union Representative Dana Belton, and Shop Stewards Jerri Desposito, Lily Aguila, Pat Jordan, and Peggy Albert of Bristol Glen; Dorie Whildin, Jeremy Harrison, and Karol Maute Moskufo of Collingswood Manor; Jen Divietro and Terri Jenkins of Pitman Manor; and Jayme Toleito of The Shores.

UFCW Local 152 proudly represents the workers at four United Methodist Communities in New Jersey, a senior living community that includes assisted living, independent living, and memory care. Our members work as CMAs, CNAs, LPNS, receptionists, maintenance, housekeeping, cooks, and more.

Are you interested in joining UFCW Local 152? Start by learning more about how to start a union at your workplace.