Cliffs and United Steelworkers to make donations
Cliffs Natural Resources and United Steelworks Local Unions 4974 and 4950 announced today they will be donating $18,000 to charitable organizations in Marquette, Alger and Baraga Counties.
The funds will come from Cliffs Michigan Operations vending machine fund. The fund contains money collected by vending machines located around the property used by employees and visitors during 2013.
“This is a unique opportunity for our employees to provide support to the community right before the holidays,” said James Kochevar, general manager, Cliffs Michigan Operations. “The need for assistance continues to rise in our community and we’re happy to join with the Steelworkers to be able to provide support that will help individuals and families in need.”
“On behalf of the members of USW Local 4974, and as employees of Cliffs Michigan Operations, we are grateful that we are able to extend these charitable donations to the local agencies,” said Jim Jarvi, president, USW Local 4974. “Through these donations our employees are able to brighten the holidays of individuals and families in our local communities.”
“At a time when so many individuals and families are struggling due to a challenged economy, the men and women of the USW Local 4950 are pleased that we can be a part of this effort to assist our community,” said Chad Korpi, financial secretary, USW Local 4950. “We’re proud to make these contributions back to our communities.”
Organizations receiving donations this year include the St. Vincent de Paul Societies in Marquette, Gwinn, Republic, Ishpeming, L’Anse and Munising; the Salvation Army in Ishpeming and Marquette; the Steelworkers Coalition and the Marquette Women’s Center.
The donations will be distributed among the organizations sometime within the next few weeks.