The UFT — fighting for you!

In January 2010, the UFT’s Family Child Care Providers Chapter ratified its first contract with the state, which provides for health insurance benefits for providers. Funding for professional development and grants to improve the quality of the learning environment were among the other important benefits.

Many of the benefits negotiated in this contract extend to all providers, regardless of union membership. And the union represents all providers in negotiations with the state — whether or not they choose to become card-carrying union members. For this reason, beginning Jan. 1, all non-contracted home-based voucher providers will see $21 deducted from their pay each month and transferred to the union to help cover the costs of representing you and all providers. Automatic dues deduction will begin on Jan. 1, based on hours worked during December 2011.

In addition to the benefits extended to all providers through our contract, the union also offers additional benefits to those who sign up as members — including access to discounted drug and dental insurance, a $10,000 life insurance policy and an official union identification card that will allow you to access discounts at many retailers.

Moreover, as a member of the UFT, you will also be a member of our statewide and national affiliates, NYSUT and the AFT, which offer their own membership benefits and discounts.

The UFT is your union — we are here to serve you — and we hope you will join us today. To join, fill out the membership card on page 4 and return it to the UFT.

Whatever you decide, you should know that the union works for you on a daily basis, resolving payment and licensing disputes, fighting for fair treatment from city agencies and negotiating with the state on your behalf.

Remember, while many contract benefits extend to all providers regardless of union membership, other union-offered benefits are available to members only. Also, some contract benefits apply to licensed and registered providers only. Join the union today to receive the full range of benefits available to you.

We have fought long and hard for a union and a voice. Now that we have them, we hope all providers will strengthen that voice and its impact — by joining the UFT today!