Labor’s Community Service Agency (LCSA) and the Northwest Oregon Labor Council held their annual “Presents from Partners” holiday party for children of out-of-work union members Dec. 17 at the Sheet Metal Workers union hall in Northeast Portland.
More than 300 kids — boys, girls, tweens, teens, and toddlers —participated, with each receiving four toys each, including some bicycles. Families also enjoyed a catered lunch and pictures with Santa Claus.
Union organizations, members, unionized businesses and professionals that work with unions donated toys and cash for the event, said LCSA Executive Director Vickie Burns.
“The outpouring of support this holiday season was a gift from and for working people and organized labor,” Burns said. “It was a display of solidarity, an inspiration, and a resounding success.”
Leftover toys were donated to Toy & Joy and went to out-of-work military families. Those arrangements were made through LCSA’s contacts with Hire Oregon Vets and Oregon National Guard.
