United Way’s relationship with Labour has been a cornerstone of our work in Halton and Hamilton for close to a century. Together, we have tackled urgent social issues and supported the wellbeing of families and neighbours across our communities.
This enduring partnership reaches far beyond the workplace. It’s rooted in a shared understanding that supporting workers means also supporting the communities where they live and raise their families.
Where Solidarity Meets Action
A powerful example of this collaboration is Operation Backpack, a community-driven program launched in 2009.
The idea took root when local teachers shared with steelworkers that many students were starting the school year without basic supplies.
Around the same time, United Steelworkers Adjustment Centre Representative and then United Way board member Terry Willock was asked by his employer how they could give back.
“I remembered seeing a backpack initiative United Way was involved in,” Terry recalls. “So when my employer asked how they could get involved, I suggested we partner with United Way to start something similar for kids here in Hamilton.”
That first year, steelworkers gathered 92 backpacks.
“The teachers expressed how much more they needed,” says Darren Green, President of the Hamilton Steelworkers Area Council and a former United Way board member. “That really drove us to keep going.”
And keep going they did.
The latest Operation Backpack drive in August this year delivered 1,869 backpacks filled with supplies to 48 schools, giving local students the tools they need to start the year with dignity and confidence.
Each backpack included essentials like notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other age-appropriate learning tools.
What began as a simple idea has grown into a large-scale, annual community effort. Local unions, businesses, community groups, and volunteers now contribute funds, donate supplies, and come together to assemble the backpacks. Operation Backpack has become a true celebration of community solidarity.
An Idea That’s Spreading
Terry has seen the program’s reach grow far beyond Hamilton. “Every year the need increases. It’s heartbreaking that so many children require this support, but at the same time it’s inspiring to see how the idea has spread. Communities across Ontario and even across Canada have taken on this initiative, often inspired by the steelworkers here in Hamilton.”
A Lasting Partnership
For Terry, who has served on a labour council and on United Way’s Board of Directors, the partnership between Labour and United Way is one of deep collaboration and shared values.
“It’s an important relationship,” Terry says. “I’ve always encouraged people to be involved with United Way. To me, it’s like a one-stop shop. United Way makes sure resources go where they’re needed most.”
Support Community Impact
The partnership between Labour and United Way is built on more than shared values. It’s built on action. From programs that support families, workers, and children across Halton and Hamilton, this collaboration continues to strengthen our communities in meaningful ways.
But the need is growing – and so must our response.
Click here to learn more about United Way’s impact and donate today to support programs that uplift our community.
Together, we can ensure our most vulnerable have the opportunity to thrive.
