Union Says Non-Perishable Food Items, Everyday Essentials, Kids Items Needed

America West flight attendants are holding a holiday food drive to assist flight attendants in need during the holiday season. 

"The last few years have been difficult for all workers across all industries, but our flight attendants are more in need now than ever before. Our food bank is a response to requests for help from our members who are struggling. America West flight attendants have not had a wage increase since 2002 and are having a hard time eking out a living on wages eroded by time and the poor economy," said Lisa LeCarre, AFA-CWA America West President.

The Pantry of Love was a brainstorm of AFA-CWA Council 66 activists. It was formed in 2008 and is managed by Council Representative Erin McLoughlin.  Approximately 15 flight attendants visit the food bank each month and during the holidays, those numbers increase.

"After furloughs and foreclosures, some of our members could not afford to feed themselves or their families.  AFA-CWA responded to their needs by organizing the Pantry of Love Food Bank, which relies entirely on donations and volunteers," said McLoughlin.  "It is heart-wrenching to see such need from people who work so hard for such a huge company with all the resources that they have available. Our flight attendants didn't ask for this merger and didn't ask for frozen wages. At least when they ask for help, we are here to do what we can."

America West Airlines merged with US Airways in 2005, yet flight attendants are still without a contract that merges their two employee groups.

For readers in the Phoenix area, donations will be collected at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (KPHX) on Wednesday from 0900-1600 MST

FMI: www.afanet.org