On December 15, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 66, representing Locals 21, 1030, 1115, and 2191, volunteered at the WAFER Food Pantry in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The group assisted with sorting and preparing donations for people in need.
“Events like this demonstrate what the IAM stands for at its core, working people helping working people,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “District 66’s commitment to serving their community through the H.E.L.P.S. program reflects the values of solidarity, dignity, and compassion that define our union.”
District 66 has an ongoing partnership with WAFER for IAM H.E.L.P.S. events because of WAFER’s role in providing food and hygiene necessities to individuals and families in the region. In November, Local 21 held a food drive that raised both food and monetary donations. The Local 21 Shop Committee matched the funds raised by contributing their own money, bringing total donations to over $600.
Following this effort, District 66 delegates decided to provide additional support through volunteering. More than a dozen IAM members and their family members took part in assisting WAFER staff with various tasks.
“District 66 members didn’t just donate food and funds, they showed up, rolled up their sleeves, and worked side by side to make a difference,” said IAM District 66 Directing Business Representative Jana Kirch. “That kind of hands-on service strengthens our communities and reinforces the positive impact IAM members have beyond the workplace.”
Donations from the Rotary Lights event helped restock WAFER’s warehouse. Volunteers sorted items into boxes labeled for different categories such as breakfast foods or hygiene products and organized canned goods for storage or shelving. Bulk items were repackaged to meet individual or family needs. Throughout the evening shift until closing at 8 p.m., community members came to select needed supplies.
“The individuals served represented all walks of life, families, seniors, college-aged individuals, and working people,” added Kirch. “What stood out most was the realization that these neighbors did not fit outdated stereotypes of need. They were everyday community members facing difficult choices, such as whether to buy groceries or pay heating bills.”
