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Invest Further in the IAM Disaster Relief Fund
In 2023, the U.S. experienced a record-breaking 28 climate and weather related disasters that caused nearly $100 billion in damages and killed nearly 500 people.370 Nearly half of homes in the United States, valued at $22 trillion, are at risk of either flood, wind, wildfire, heat or air quality climate related hazards.371 And according to CNBC, “some insurance companies are pulling back coverage from fire-and-flood prone areas, leaving homeowners with limited affordable options.”372 As working people become more at risk to the effects of climate change, they may also have fewer options to help them adapt and recover.
The IAM Disaster Relief Fund is a tremendous resource for the union. At its last convention, the IAM passed a 5 cent per capita fund contribution, adding $100,000 annually to the fund.
Members who lose their homes to disaster can receive assistance from the fund: $100 for renters and up to $500 for homeowners. With the risk of disaster growing for members across the U.S. and Canada, it is imperative to expand this critical resource.
The IAM can continue to grow the Disaster Relief Fund to be prepared for future disasters and to increase the payment amount for claims. Increasing the payout to renters would also be an important measure to improve equity in the program. To fund this, the IAM can negotiate for employer contributions, either as direct contributions like those made to a training fund, or as a voluntary payroll deduction match like the union’s Guide Dogs for America fundraising.
370 Smith, “2023: A Historic Year of U.S. Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters, NOAA.”
371 Hale, Speianu, and Xu, “2024 Realtor.Com Housing and Climate Risk Report.”
An expanded Disaster Relief Fund could also partner with the Employee Assistance Program, Critical Incident Response Program, the Women’s and Civil Rights Committees and the Winpisinger Center to develop a comprehensive disaster response program that trains member volunteers in disaster support (distributing aid, assisting in cleanup and recovery, and supporting safety and health needs) who can be deployed to disaster areas as needed.
The Disaster Relief Fund is a strategic resource for the resiliency of the IAM and its members. The IAM can promote the Fund to current members and highlight this union benefit in organizing campaigns. Expanding this program will build member investment in the union and bolster the union's climate leadership through helping communities in times of need.