In a significant win for workers, Unifor Local 2488 has successfully negotiated a groundbreaking agreement for employees at Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST). This new contract represents a major step forward in improving the wages, benefits, and working conditions of those who provide critical services to Indigenous children and families.
The employees of NCFST have long played an essential role in supporting and empowering Indigenous communities across Toronto. As frontline workers, they deliver services that range from child welfare and mental health support to housing assistance and cultural programming. However, despite the importance of their work, these employees have faced challenges in receiving fair compensation and workplace protections. That changed when Unifor Local 2488 stepped in to advocate on their behalf.
The newly secured agreement ensures that NCFST employees will receive significant wage increases, better health benefits, and enhanced job security. Importantly, it also addresses the need for improved working conditions, including measures to prevent burnout, a major concern in social service roles. Additional provisions for paid mental health days and improved access to counseling services have been included in the contract to support the emotional and psychological well-being of the staff.
“These workers are the backbone of Native Child and Family Services of Toronto, and their dedication is unmatched. They deserve to be treated with the respect and fairness that reflect the impact they have on Indigenous families and communities,” said a Unifor Local 2488 representative. “This agreement not only improves their quality of life but also strengthens their ability to continue providing excellent service to the families who rely on them.”
The union spent months negotiating with NCFST leadership, working to ensure that the needs of its members were fully addressed. The result is a comprehensive contract that balances financial compensation with key workplace improvements. Employees can now look forward to additional training and career development opportunities, which will enhance their skill sets and contribute to their long-term professional growth.
For Native Child and Family Services of Toronto, this agreement comes at a critical time. The organization has seen increased demand for its services, particularly as Indigenous families face ongoing socio-economic challenges. By ensuring better support and compensation for staff, NCFST will be better positioned to continue providing high-quality services to the community.
Unifor Local 2488’s efforts don’t end with this agreement. The union is committed to maintaining open lines of communication with NCFST workers to monitor the implementation of the new contract and ensure that its terms are respected. Additionally, Unifor plans to continue its advocacy for greater recognition of the vital contributions made by social service employees across Canada.
This landmark agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the strength of solidarity. It demonstrates what can be achieved when unions and employers work together to uplift workers, ensuring they are fairly compensated and supported in their important roles.
“This is more than just a contract; it’s a commitment to the well-being of our members and the communities they serve,” said the Unifor Local 2488 spokesperson. “We are proud of the progress made, and we will continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of all workers.”
Through this new agreement, Unifor Local 2488 has set a precedent for how private-sector unions can successfully advocate for workers in social services, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and valued at every level.
