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  • Message From Yvonne Armstrong, 1199SEIU President

    Message From Yvonne Armstrong, 1199SEIU President

    Message From Yvonne Armstrong, 1199SEIU President

    League Contract Victory! 4% Pension Bonuses Coming Soon

    By 1199SEIU President Yvonne Armstrong

    1199SEIU is the powerhouse union we are today in large part because of the legacy of our retired members, who led trailblazing fights over many decades that uplifted generations of healthcare workers, our families, patients and communities.

    Today, the standards that we fought so long and hard to achieve are under threat, not least due to the unprecedented Medicaid cuts enacted by the Trump administration’s “Big Ugly Bill.” But despite these strong headwinds, I am so proud to report that, in the early morning of June 30, after nearly 24 hours of nonstop bargaining with the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes of New York, we reached a contract agreement!

    This agreement once again locks in the highest standards for healthcare workers in the United States. It recognizes the essential contributions of our members and guarantees benefits and protections that our labor movement strives to achieve for every working person: excellent, zero-cost health insurance, robust child-care and education benefits, real job security, guaranteed raises and a defined benefit pension plan that allows workers to retire in dignity.

    I am exceedingly proud of our rank-and-file negotiating committee, which drove this process through many long days and nights, making decisions collectively and democratically at each step of the way. This committee was backed up by thousands of 1199 members who exercised their power in their institutions and took action in the streets to win our demands.

    Importantly, we had 1199 Retiree Division leaders with us throughout, and I want to give a special shoutout to Jacynthe Stewart and Howard Hall, who kept us motivated and lent us their decades of organizing and bargaining experience—while making sure that retirees had strong voices at the bargaining table.

    Our negotiating team made it crystal clear to management that we would never settle for a contract that left retirees out. As strong as our pension is, we know that the current affordability crisis hits every retiree’s pocketbook.

    We secured, in year one of our contract, a bonus equal to 4% for retirees. This represents the strongest pension bonus we’ve achieved over several contract cycles, exceeding the 3% in 2021, the 3% in 2018, the $600 lump sum in 2014 and the absence of any bonus in 2009 during the Great Recession. This 4% bonus will be paid out by December 18, 2026.

    Another major achievement in this contract is that for the first time in decades we are establishing a new labor-management fund: a $2 million Immigration Legal Defense Fund to support immigrant members facing changes to their work status. In light of the Supreme Court ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti and other countries, which impacts many members and their families, this cannot come soon enough.

    We were intentional about getting an excellent contract by the end of June, well before the expiration in late September. We knew we needed to do this in order to lock in the retiree bonus and secure members’ wages and benefits at a time of great economic uncertainty.

    By winning early, we are positioned to fully marshal our Union’s resources for our next huge challenge—taking back power in the 2026 midterm elections. So much is at stake: our voting and civil rights, the rights of workers to form and join unions, the future of Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare, and protecting healthcare jobs and services from cuts. These are fights we can—and will—win, and the 1199 retirees who led the historic struggles in decades past continue to be our daily inspiration.

    THIS SECTION IS PAID FOR BY 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST


    ¡Victoria en el contrato con la League!
    Próximamente llegarán los bonos de pensión del 4%

    By 1199SEIU President Yvonne Armstrong

    1199SEIU es el sindicato poderoso que somos hoy en gran parte gracias al legado de nuestros miembros jubilados, quienes encabezaron luchas pioneras durante muchas décadas que elevaron a generaciones de trabajadores de la salud, nuestras familias, pacientes y comunidades.

    Hoy, los estándares por los que luchamos durante tanto tiempo y con tanto esfuerzo están bajo amenaza, en gran parte debido a los recortes sin precedentes a Medicaid promulgados por la Administración Trump en su “Big Ugly Bill”. Pero a pesar de estos fuertes desafíos, me enorgullece informar que, en la madrugada del 30 de junio, después de casi 24 horas de negociaciones continuas con la League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes of New York, ¡logramos un acuerdo contractual!

    Este acuerdo, una vez más, asegura los estándares más altos para los trabajadores de la salud en Estados Unidos. Reconoce las contribuciones esenciales de nuestros miembros y garantiza beneficios y protecciones que nuestro movimiento laboral se esfuerza por lograr para toda persona trabajadora: excelente seguro médico sin costo, sólidos beneficios de cuidado infantil y educación, verdadera seguridad laboral, aumentos garantizados y un plan de pensión de beneficio definido que permite a los trabajadores jubilarse con dignidad.

    Estoy sumamente orgullosa de nuestro comité de negociación de base, que impulsó este proceso durante muchos días y noches largos, tomando decisiones de manera colectiva y democrática en cada paso del camino. Este comité contó con el respaldo de miles de miembros de 1199 que ejercieron su poder en sus instituciones y tomaron acción en las calles para ganar nuestras demandas.

    Es importante destacar que contamos con líderes de la División de Jubilados de 1199 durante todo el proceso, y quiero reconocer especialmente a Jacynthe Stewart y Howard Hall, quienes nos mantuvieron motivados y aportaron sus décadas de experiencia en organización y negociación, al mismo tiempo que se aseguraron de que los jubilados tuvieran una voz fuerte en la mesa de negociación.

    Nuestro equipo de negociación dejó muy claro a la gerencia que nunca aceptaríamos un contrato que dejara fuera a los jubilados. Por sólida que sea nuestra pensión, sabemos que la crisis actual de asequibilidad afecta el bolsillo de cada jubilado.

    Logramos, en el primer año de nuestro contrato, un bono equivalente al 4% para los jubilados. Esto representa el bono de pensión más sólido que hemos logrado en varios ciclos contractuales, superando el 3% de 2021, el 3% de 2018, el pago único de $600 en 2014 y la ausencia de cualquier bono en 2009 durante la Gran Recesión. Este bono del 4% se pagará a más tardar el 18 de diciembre de 2026.

    Otro logro importante en este contrato es que, por primera vez en décadas, estamos estableciendo un nuevo fondo laboral-gerencial: un Fondo de Defensa Legal de Inmigración de $2 millones para apoyar a los miembros inmigrantes que enfrentan cambios en su estatus laboral. A la luz de la decisión de la Corte Suprema de poner fin al Estatus de Protección Temporal (TPS) para Haití y otros países, lo cual afecta a muchos miembros y sus familias, este apoyo no podría llegar en mejor momento.

    Fuimos intencionales al lograr un contrato excelente para fines de junio, mucho antes de su vencimiento a finales de septiembre. Sabíamos que necesitábamos hacerlo para asegurar el bono para jubilados y proteger los salarios y beneficios de los miembros en un momento de gran incertidumbre económica.

    Al ganar temprano, estamos en posición de movilizar plenamente los recursos de nuestro sindicato para nuestro próximo gran desafío: recuperar el poder en las elecciones de medio término de 2026. Hay muchísimo en juego: nuestros derechos civiles y de voto, los derechos de los trabajadores a formar y afiliarse a sindicatos, el futuro del Seguro Social, Medicaid y Medicare, y la protección de los empleos y servicios de salud frente a los recortes. Estas son luchas que podemos ganar —y que ganaremos—, y los jubilados de 1199 que encabezaron las luchas históricas de décadas pasadas siguen siendo nuestra inspiración diaria.

    ESTA SECCIÓN LA FINANCIA 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST

  • Healthy Habits Daily Checklist

    Healthy Habits Daily Checklist

    Healthy Habits Daily Checklist

    • Drink water (the amount should be based on your weight, activity level and environment)
    • Move your body for 30 minutes
    • Eat fruits and vegetables at every meal
    • Practice self-care
    • Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep
  • Join the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds Team

    Join the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds Team

    Seasonal Temporary Registration Clerk

    $22.00 per Hour | Full-Time | In-Office
    Temporary Assignment: August 2026 – November 2026

    Join the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds Team

    The 1199SEIU Child Care Funds support healthcare workers by providing affordable childcare, youth development programs, and educational services. We proudly serve members of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, helping more than 12,000 children each year through after-school programs, summer camps, and college preparation initiatives.

    We’re looking for motivated, customer-focused individuals to join our Program Registration Department as Seasonal Temporary Registration Clerks. If you enjoy helping people, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and have strong customer service skills, we’d love to hear from you.

    Position Summary

    As a Registration Clerk, you will assist members with enrolling in Child Care Fund programs by determining eligibility, completing registrations, and providing guidance on available services. This role requires excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to manage a high volume of member interactions.

    Schedule

    • Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    • Some evening and Saturday hours required
    • Occasional travel to field locations throughout the metropolitan area
    • Three-week paid training program provided

    Key Responsibilities

    • Assist members with determining eligibility for Child Care Fund benefits and programs.
    • Guide members through the application and registration process in person, online, and virtually.
    • Accurately enter member applications and program information while meeting daily productivity goals.
    • Review and update application records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
    • Respond professionally to a high volume of phone calls and emails.
    • Maintain confidential member files and documentation.
    • Travel to designated field locations to provide registration support.
    • Perform other administrative duties as assigned.

    Qualifications

    • High school diploma required; some college coursework preferred.
    • Minimum of two (2) years of office experience with strong customer service skills.
    • Excellent data entry and computer skills with strong attention to detail.
    • Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and web-based applications preferred.
    • Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply (Spanish, Haitian Creole, French, Mandarin, or other languages are a plus).

    Why Join Us?

    At the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of healthcare workers and their families while gaining valuable experience in a mission-driven organization.

    Compensation: $22.00 per hour

    We offer a competitive salary, a comprehensive employer-paid benefits package, and the opportunity to work alongside dedicated professionals committed to serving our members.

    Apply today and become part of a team that supports healthcare workers and their families every day.

    For consideration, please apply here.

    We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

  • A Message from Rossmery Dais

    A Message from Rossmery Dais

    A Message from Rossmery Dais

    Message from CCC-Presidient - Rossmery DaisDear Friends:

    For more than 30 years, the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds and the 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Corporation have supported more than 460,000 children and families of essential healthcare workers and the broader community. As we enter our next quarter century, our commitment remains unwavering: to serve working families through nurturing, enriching child-care programs and trusted resources.

    We are excited to celebrate and share programmatic highlights from 2025 that reflect the passion and dedication of our amazing team. In this newsletter, you’ll read about the Youth Mentoring Program (YMP) closing ceremony, featuring keynote speaker Congresswoman Yvette Clarke of Brooklyn, who shared inspiring reflections—including her experience as one of YMP’s first program managers. Through the New York City-funded Summer Youth Employment Program, 84 WorkForce Program students gained valuable internship experience across a range of industries. More than 660 youth built friendships and resilience at our Anne Shore Sleep-Away Camp, while our youngest learners showcased their curiosity and creativity at the Future of America Learning Center’s annual science fair.

    On October 22, we proudly hosted our 18th Annual Care for Kids Gala. The theme, Bridges to the Future, perfectly captured the pathways our programs create for children and families. We were honored to recognize three extraordinary leaders: Amalgamated Bank and its President and CEO, Priscilla Sims Brown; Marilyn A. Fraser, MD, CEO of the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health; and Tomas Ramos, Founder, President and CEO of the Oyate Group. Together, these honorees exemplify leadership in social justice, public health, education and youth development. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we raised over $300,000 for our programs. We are deeply grateful to our donors and to our corporate sponsor, Aetna, for its unwavering partnership.

    I look forward to the continued programs, partnerships and resources—and most importantly, the peace of mind—that our Child Care team provides to working families every day.

    All the best,

    Rossmery Dais
    Executive Director, 1199SEIU Child Care Funds
    President, 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Corporation

  • A Message from Rossmery Dais

    A Message from Rossmery Dais

    A Message from Rossmery Dais

    Message from CCC-Presidient - Rossmery DaisDear Friends:

    For more than 30 years, the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds and the 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Corporation have supported more than 460,000 children and families of essential healthcare workers and the broader community. As we enter our next quarter century, our commitment remains unwavering: to serve working families through nurturing, enriching child-care programs and trusted resources.

    We are excited to celebrate and share programmatic highlights from 2025 that reflect the passion and dedication of our amazing team. In this newsletter, you’ll read about the Youth Mentoring Program (YMP) closing ceremony, featuring keynote speaker Congresswoman Yvette Clarke of Brooklyn, who shared inspiring reflections—including her experience as one of YMP’s first program managers. Through the New York City-funded Summer Youth Employment Program, 84 WorkForce Program students gained valuable internship experience across a range of industries. More than 660 youth built friendships and resilience at our Anne Shore Sleep-Away Camp, while our youngest learners showcased their curiosity and creativity at the Future of America Learning Center’s annual science fair.

    On October 22, we proudly hosted our 18th Annual Care for Kids Gala. The theme, Bridges to the Future, perfectly captured the pathways our programs create for children and families. We were honored to recognize three extraordinary leaders: Amalgamated Bank and its President and CEO, Priscilla Sims Brown; Marilyn A. Fraser, MD, CEO of the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health; and Tomas Ramos, Founder, President and CEO of the Oyate Group. Together, these honorees exemplify leadership in social justice, public health, education and youth development. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we raised over $300,000 for our programs. We are deeply grateful to our donors and to our corporate sponsor, Aetna, for its unwavering partnership.

    I look forward to the continued programs, partnerships and resources—and most importantly, the peace of mind—that our Child Care team provides to working families every day.

    All the best,

    Rossmery Dais
    Executive Director, 1199SEIU Child Care Funds
    President, 1199SEIU/Employer Child Care Corporation

  • Message from the Executive Director, Spring/Summer 2026

    Message from the Executive Director, Spring/Summer 2026

    Message from the Executive Director, Spring/Summer 2026

    Dear 1199SEIU Members,

    Spring has a way of reminding us that renewal is always possible. I love the warm weather and can’t help but celebrate the season! After months of cold weather, the longer days and warmer air invite us to open the windows, take a deep breath and start fresh. Just as many of us tackle spring cleaning at home, this season is also a perfect opportunity to refresh our habits, refocus on our well-being and make full use of the resources we have available to us.

    Healthy living is not about perfection. It’s about making small changes that add up over time. Spring gives us a natural boost in that direction. I look forward to spending time outdoors and moving more, eating lighter meals as fresh foods come back into season and reconnecting with family, friends and our communities. These everyday moments matter. They support not only physical health but also emotional well-being.

    The Benefit Funds are here to support you—with programs and resources that make wellness practical and sustainable. Spring is a great reminder that focusing on prevention and self-care really pays off in the long run. Our featured member, Pedro Bosque, a Dietary Department Porter at Sodexo, shows just how meaningful it can be to find a health routine that works for you and commit to consistent practice. I hope you’ll take a moment to read his story.

    Spring cleaning isn’t just about clearing out closets; it’s about creating space. When we declutter our homes, we make room for what truly matters. The same idea applies to our health. Letting go of what holds us back makes room for healthier choices to take root. In this edition of For Your Benefit, you’ll find information about the wide range of choices available to you. The latest is Noom, a holistic weight-loss program that uses a scientific mind-first approach to make it easier for you to reach your goals.

    Finally, I’m excited to share that season three of our Health Is the Key podcast is in full swing, and we’ve hit a major milestone with 50K streams! You can listen to our most recent episode, plus all our previous episodes by visiting Health Is The Key. We have a fantastic lineup of guests this season, so subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

    Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox for the latest Members’ Voices video—we share a new one every month. To ensure we reach you with all the latest news, please verify your contact information. Please visit www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/member-contact-form.

    As we embrace this vibrant season, I hope you feel refreshed, motivated and ready for the possibilities ahead. Together, let’s continue to support one another on our journey toward lasting well-being.

    In good health,

    Donna Rey, EdD

    Executive Director, 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds

    CEO, 1199SEIU Funds Administrative Operations

  • Why your gut health matters

    Why your gut health matters

    Why your gut health matters

    Gut health is getting a lot of attention these days—but what does it really mean? And how is your gut different from your stomach? Your gut is your entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract, while your stomach is just one part of it. When your gut is healthy, it helps reduce inflammation and supports a strong immune system.

    Digestive issues happen to everyone and often reflect what’s going on in the rest of your body. As we age, digestion can slow down, which makes everyday habits just as important as what’s on your plate. To support gut health, focus on eating fiber-rich foods, getting enough sleep, staying active, managing stress and seeking support for anxiety or depression.

    That’s because your gut and your mood are closely connected through what’s known as the brain-gut connection. If your digestion feels off, it may affect how you feel emotionally—and vice versa. Want to learn more? Listen to our April podcast episode, “Healthy Gut, Healthy Mind, with Dr. Preeti Mehta,” at Health Is The Key or wherever you get your podcasts.

    Is your doctor listening?

    All of this makes one thing especially important: having a doctor who really listens. A strong relationship with your primary care provider can make it easier to ask questions, share concerns and talk honestly about what you’re experiencing—but that only works if you feel heard.

    What if you need a specialist?

    When it comes to gut health, listening matters even more. Digestive issues can be uncomfortable, confusing and easy to brush off. A doctor who listens—or who refers you to a skilled gastroenterologist when needed—is more likely to catch important details, make the right diagnosis and help you create a plan that actually works for you. Feeling heard builds trust and can take a lot of stress out of medical visits.

    If you feel like your concerns aren’t being taken seriously, it can lead to frustration and ongoing health problems.

    You deserve better care. Find a new primary care provider or gastroenterologist by visiting the 1199SEIU Benefit Funds Provider Directory at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/find-a-provider.

  • Tune in to our podcast

    Tune in to our podcast

    Tune in to our podcast

    We’re more than halfway through the third season of our Health Is the Key podcast, and we’re going strong!

    We have a fantastic lineup of guests to finish out the year, including celebrity chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson, who will be joining our host, Elizabeth Moore, for a special video episode in November. And keep an eye out for our upcoming promotional giveaways!

    To listen to our latest episode or any of our previous ones, visit Health Is the Key or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

    Listen on

  • The Secret to Getting Healthier with Age

    The Secret to Getting Healthier with Age

    The Secret to Getting Healthier with Age

    Life moves fast, but it’s never too late to start taking better care of yourself. With packed schedules and endless to-do lists, finding a healthy balance can feel tough, but you don’t need to overhaul your life. Small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in how you feel.

    This isn’t about the tons of products out there promising to “turn back the clock.” You don’t need a shelf full of pills and potions to feel like the best version of yourself. When you focus on eating well, moving your body every day and taking care of your mental and emotional health, you’re giving yourself powerful tools to make meaningful change.

    Give your health routine a spring cleaning!

    Let’s start in the kitchen.

    You may have heard people say that your fridge is the new medicine cabinet—and there’s some truth to that. Stocking it with foods that keep you fueled, focused and energized can go a long way. And don’t worry, you don’t need to throw everything out. Start by adding a few healthier staples to your grocery list.

    Grocery List Cheat Sheet

    Pick your protein: Choose lean chicken or turkey and omega-3 rich fatty fish options like salmon and tuna. Following a plant-based diet? Not all options are nutrient dense. Opt for eggs, soy, tempeh and beans like chickpeas and black beans.

    Fill up on fruit: Load up on citrus, apples and perfect-for-snacking blueberries, blackberries and raspberries.

    Veg out: Stock up on fiber-rich broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes and whatever leafy greens you like.­ Collards, romaine, kale and arugula are all packed with flavor and benefits. Can’t find what you need in season? Frozen fruits and vegetables are frozen at peak freshness and can help you quickly add variety or round out your meals.

    Go whole grain: Swap white rice and pasta for brown rice and hearty grains like quinoa and barley.

    Expert tip:

    Try doing most of your shopping around the outer perimeter of the grocery store—that’s where the fresh produce, meat and dairy usually are. The center aisles tend to be where the more processed foods live.

    Nothing is totally off-limits, of course, but keeping a mental map of where your go-to healthy items are can help you focus on the good stuff and cut down on those “impulse grabs.”

    Get moving.

    If you’re new to exercising—or just easing back into it—take it slow. Starting gently helps you figure out what you enjoy and lets your body adjust at a pace that feels right. It’s a great way to work toward your goals without risking injury.

    Try beginning with a simple daily walk. Hop on a treadmill or walking pad—or head outside now that the weather’s nice and stroll around your neighborhood or a local park. And on days when you’ve got a little extra energy, switch things up with a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout or a quick exercise circuit to get your heart rate going.

    Strength training is also beneficial. Using weights, resistance bands or even just your own body weight can help you build muscle and stay strong. And to keep everything balanced, try stretching before bed—it’s a relaxing way to wind down and support your flexibility.

    Expert tip:

    Track your progress. If you feel like you’re putting in the effort but not really seeing the results, using a health tracker can really help. You can set goals, jot down what you’re eating and log your workouts or daily activity. Even if the changes feel slow, having everything written down gives you real, in‑hand proof that you’re moving forward, which can be very motivating.

    Make self-care a priority.

    You’ve heard all the self‑care talk before. But taking care of yourself really does matter. And it’s not just about bubble baths or a cup of tea. Real self‑care is about doing the things that help you feel rested, supported and mentally grounded.

    Get good sleep. Everyone’s different, but sticking to a consistent sleep routine can make your whole day feel smoother. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day to keep your mind sharp and your energy steady.

    Take breaks. Little pauses throughout the day can go a long way. Whether it’s a one‑minute meditation, a quick stretch or a short walk, giving yourself a breather helps ease tension and lets you come back to your tasks with a clearer head.

    Reach out when you need support. It’s not always easy to ask for help, but sometimes talking to someone is exactly what you need. A trusted friend, counselor, therapist, psychiatrist or social worker can be a great sounding board when things feel heavy or confusing.

    Stay social.

    It’s time to shake off hibernation mode! With so much of our lives happening online these days, it’s no surprise that loneliness is on the rise. Staying connected to your friends, family and community is actually a big part of staying healthy.

    Try taking a class or volunteering with a group you care about. It’s a fun way to meet people who share your interests and stay plugged in to what’s happening in your community. And consistency goes a long way. Whether it’s planning regular dinners with friends, setting up a weekly call with family or just checking in on a neighbor, small moments of connection add up.

    NEW!

    Join through the Benefit Funds

    Noom is a holistic weight-loss program that uses a scientific mind-first approach to support you in building healthy habits that last. You also get unlimited one-on-one human coaching with experts who offer guidance tailored to your health goals.

    To find out more, visit go.noom.com/1199seiubenefitfunds.

  • Have you signed up for MyAccount?

    Have you signed up for MyAccount?

    Have you signed up for MyAccount?

    MyAccount is an easy-to-use, personalized online platform to access your benefits and pension information. You can quickly make updates, sign up for popular programs and more.

    Visit MyAccount today.