Nursing home workers at Genesis Abington Manor in Clarks Summit, Pa., recently joined RWDSU/UFCW Local 262 for the better wages and benefits that come with a union contract, as well as the ability to ensure the best possible care for their patients.
The 57 licensed practical n
urses and certified nursing assistants won their union voice via an NLRB election, and join hundreds of their Genesis colleagues in New Jersey and Pennsylvania who are RWDSU/UFCW members.
The workers at Abington Manor began organizing after years of losing benefits, stagnant wages, and unaffordable health care coverage.
“When I started the union campaign, it was because I saw where the facility had weaknesses and how this was affecting the floor staff,” said Kacey Walsh, a licensed practical nurse at Genesis Abington Manor. “The workers here do an amazing job together and truly love the residents, and it shows in the care they receive. In order to best serve the residents, we knew we needed a voice on the job, and the dignity and respect that comes with joining a union.”
“The organizing committee of workers at Abington Manor truly did an amazing job,” said RWDSU/UFCW Organizer Paul Bazemore. “They organized in a matter of weeks during the difficult circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. They deserve a strong contract, and that’s what they are going to get.”