Dear Sisters and Brothers:
We are closely monitoring the impact of Hurricane Lala as the storm moves across the Hawaiian Islands.
Hurricane Lala strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane Saturday as it approached Hawaii Island, bringing dangerous winds, heavy rainfall, large and dangerous surf, and the potential for life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides. The National Weather Service reports that some windward areas of the Big Island could receive 10 to 20 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts, while significant rainfall is also expected across Maui and the remainder of the island chain.
The American Red Cross has been coordinating with state and county officials and preparing disaster teams and supplies for the storm. State and local officials are urging residents to remain alert, follow emergency instructions, and avoid unnecessary travel during dangerous conditions.
The IAM Employee Assistance Program is available to help members and their families navigate difficult circumstances and connect with appropriate resources.
If you or a loved one has been affected by Hurricane Lala and needs assistance, please contact IAM District 142 EAP Director Paul Shultz via his 24-Hour Confidential Voicemail: (704) 907-3563, or by email at pm.shultz@att.net and/or pshultz@iamdl142.org. You may also contact the District 142 EAP Representative in Hawaii: Christine Mahoe, at (808) 937-8967, or by email at cmahoe22@yahoo.com. During a power outage or other emergency, a phone call or text message may be faster and more reliable than email.
The IAM Disaster Relief Fund is another important resource for IAM members and their families experiencing hardship due to natural disasters. Members should review the Disaster Relief information and application requirements as soon as possible if they have suffered damage or significant losses.
IAM Disaster Relief information and applications:
https://www.goiam.org/disaster-relief-guides/
Here are some additional helpful links to organizations and agencies that can assist you in the aftermath of this storm:
- American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief.html
- Hawaii 211: https://auw211.org/
- The Salvation Army – Hawaiian and Pacific Islands: https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usa-western-territory/hawaiian-and-pacific-islands/disaster-relief/
- FEMA: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
- Hawaii Emergency Management Agency – Hurricane Lala Updates: https://dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/hurricane-lala-updates/
- National Weather Service – Honolulu: https://www.weather.gov/hfo/
If you require assistance with your job or have questions about your contractual rights following the storm, please contact your Shop Steward, General Chair, or District 142 representative.
Please stay safe, follow the instructions of local emergency officials, and check on your fellow IAM members whenever possible.
Sincerely and fraternally,
John M. Coveny, Jr.
President/Directing General Chair
Paul Shultz
EAP Director
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