Special Appeal for Storm Relief Donations


The images of devastation that flooded our national consciousness in the wake of Hurricane Sandy triggered an immediate outpouring of empathy for the families and communities torn apart by the storm. More than 113 people were killed and thousands were left without homes, heat or belongings.

“The sight of American families picking through the remnants of broken homes or huddled around barrel fires for warmth is a vivid reminder of how quickly and completely lives can be upended by a natural disaster,” said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger. “Many IAM members in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania were affected by the storm and we are currently reaching out to locate and assist those members and families in the greatest need.”

As part of the IAM response to the storm, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund is issuing an urgent call for donations that can be quickly made available to IAM members and their families.

The IAM Disaster Relief Fund has recently provided assistance to IAM members affected by flooding rivers in Iowa, a factory fire in Ohio, killer tornados in Alabama and deadly wildfires in California.  

“It’s not unusual for members of a local or district to make heroic efforts when disaster strikes in their own backyard, providing immediate and invaluable assistance,” said Buffenbarger. “But a disaster of this size and scale makes neighbors of us all. The Disaster Relief Fund gives us all an opportunity to respond collectively.”

To make a contribution in any amount, please send a check to the “IAM Disaster Relief Fund” and mail it to: IAM Community Services Department, 9000 Machinists Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-2687.

Administered by the IAM Community Services Department, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund relies solely on contributions from fellow IAM members and Lodges.

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