TOLEDO -- Striking blood collection workers of the American Red Cross in Toledo began their second week on the picket line Monday. The workers are represented by UFCW Local 75. Membership rejected a contract proposal by American Red Cross on March 11. Union spoeksman Bill Dudley says the American Red Cross is asking blood collection workers to pay more in health care costs. "Our members decided to strike because they can't afford the proposal Red Cross wants; it comes down between putting food on the table or health care and that is not a good choice," Mr. Dudley said.
Red Cross spokeswoman Tracy Duncan says the organization has made a fair offer that has been accepted by unions in other states. "At this point there are no dates set for future negotiations but we believe we have put a fair offer on the table," Ms. Duncan said.
In the one week since the strike has been going on 44 scheduled blood drives have been cancelled.
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