UFCW Local 99 offers tremendous value to members of all ages, including young people who want to further their education.

Whether one’s goal is a college degree or a certificate of training, Local 99 is proud to help our members and their families access the tools they need to advance their careers.

We recognize that young workers, who comprise a growing segment of our membership, are under tremendous pressure to prepare for a working environment where reliable middle-class jobs are increasingly rare because of global competition, automation and the “gig economy.” A good education is more important than ever in this new age.

Unfortunately, the cost of getting that education is increasing at an outrageous pace. More and more students are having to take one, two and even three jobs just to cover tuition, books, supplies, food and housing.

Fortunately, help is available through Local 99’s Scholarship Program. See pages 14-15 of this publication for details on how to apply. The deadline is coming up soon.

I am also pleased to announce that the UFCW Charity Foundation scholarship program, provided through the UFCW International Union, is open for 2024. The foundation has provided scholarships for more than 50 years, and this year it is offering at least eight scholarships worth up to $8,000 each over a four-year period. The application period for these scholarships opened on Feb. 12 and will continue through May 12.

Both of these programs are available to UFCW members and their dependents.

And there’s more: Whether you prefer the convenience of online learning or need flexibility in your schedule, the UFCW Discount College Benefit has you covered. You can choose from more than 150 online courses and flexible learning options that fit your lifestyle and academic needs.

The UFCW has a long history of improving the lives of working people, and these educational opportunities are more examples of the value we bring to our members and the community.

I urge you to take advantage of our scholarships and everything else we have to offer.

Big news is coming soon about additional help we can provide to Local 99 members. Look for details in future issues of 99Report.

Your union is here for you, because you are the union!