“If we see massive layoffs and cuts to public services, entire communities will suffer — both from a public health and economic perspective.”
Ramon Williams Respiratory Therapist, AFSCME Florida
“These days, our office is serving more claimants than ever before. That’s increasing call volume. That’s increasing wait times. And that’s increasing frustrations."
Jason Suggs Unemployment Insurance Professional, AFSCME Maryland
“When this pandemic hit, I didn’t abandon the kids or the school. I hope Congress won’t abandon people like me who just want to get our communities back on their feet.”
Shirley Thomas School Custodian, AFSCME Florida
"We are running short of masks, face shields … critical supplies for our safety. And we don’t know when we’ll see the finish line."
John Duran Medical Lab Specialist, AFSCME Local 449
"We are pushing for DCFS field staff to be considered first responders. Without PPE, we could possibly go home and infect our families or bring the infection to homes we investigate."
Stephen Mittons Child Protection Investigator, AFSCME Council 31
“Because we are not a medical hospital, we are not equipped or afforded the same level of personal protective equipment that we need to prevent exposure."
Mike Yestramski Psychiatric Social Worker, AFSCME Council 28/WFSE
“I urge our elected leaders to do their part. That means ensuring we have the tools we need to keep doing the job and providing timely and accurate information to the public about how they can prevent exposure."
Blake Anderson EMT, AFSCME Local 4911/UEMSW
"I can’t do less because of fear. I just think positive and try to be knowledgeable about what’s going on in order to keep myself and [those I work with] safe."
Tanisha Woods Correctional Officer, AFSCME Local 3920
“We are really taking some vigorous interventions so we can protect us and the community since the library is a community hub.”
Leo Lafitte Custodian, AFSCME Local 1716 (Council 4)
“I’m proud to be able to help so many people each day because it means people will be able to stay in their homes or feed their families.”
Maria Ortiz-Huey Workforce Services Representative, AFSCME Local 4041
"We have food at 13 sites so any child of any age can come take breakfast and lunch to take home. Any child, no matter where you’re from or what district you’re in."
Donna Ragland Food Service Manager, OAPSE
“We’ve been shorthanded, as far as staffing levels go, for quite some time. We don’t have enough N95 masks. We don’t have the gowns or the full protective equipment we need."
Patti Davidson Paramedic, AFSCME Local 2960
"Right now, as we speak, the future is very grim for many providers. I have heard from countless providers who are wondering if we’re going to be forced to close and what's next."
Miren Algorri Child Care Provider, Child Care Providers United (United Domestic Workers/AFSCME Local 3930)
“Amid the spread of a highly contagious and lethal virus, this work – although largely out of sight – becomes even more important in keeping our communities safe and healthy.”
Derrick Fields Head Custodian, OAPSE Local 580
“The lower-wage workers are the ones who are expected to be in the front lines, but they are not the ones who are even included in the conversation about the way things are being conducted right now."
Celina Sargusingh Clinic Coordinator, AFSCME Local 1072 (Council 3)