(CHEEKTOWAGA, NEW YORK) - About two dozen 1199 Service Employees International Union (SEIU) United Healthcare Workers East-represented Caregivers who are employed at Catholic Health’s St. Joseph’s Campus in the Buffalo Suburb of Cheektowaga have unanimously ratified a new four-year contract that runs until May 31st, 2029. 

The Union Members work as Surgical Technologists at the Orthopedic Center of Excellence and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) at Clearview Treatment Center. 

"These raises close the gap with our biggest competitor and proves what happens when we stand united. This contract is more than a win. It’s a statement: We won’t settle for less," said Ashley Wyckoff, a Surgical Technologist. 

“We don’t just deserve a raise, we’ve earned it. This contract is a win for every LPN on the SJC Clearview Unit, securing a much-needed wage package that recognizes our value and helps us stay competitive in a tough market,” LPN Amber Fuller said. 

The new contract with Catholic Health includes significant wage increases on par with their competitor Kaleida Health, 1199 SEIU Officials said. 

Surgical Technologists won an average wage increase of 4.17% -to-7.17% in the first year of the agreement, which includes a 3% general wage increase and wage upgrades. 

LPNs won an average wage increase of 11.52%-to-15.23% for the first year, which includes a general wage increase of 3% and wage upgrades.

Wage increases are retroactive to May 31st. 

In addition, the Caregivers also won general wage increases of 3% in year two, 3.5% in year three and 3.5% in year four - totaling more than 13% general wage increases over the life of the contract. 

Workers also won improvements to bereavement leave, paid time off and paid time off/buy back, which is now at 100%. 

In addition, LPNs will get an additional $8 per hour bonus pay for any hours worked above full-time and Surgical Technologists will maintain their bonus. 

The Unionized Workers will also maintain health insurance, dental insurance, retirement benefits, hospital discounts and severance pay, 1199 SEIU Representatives said.  

To Directly Access This Labor News Story, Go To: 1199SEIU Healthcare Workers At Catholic Health’s St. Joseph’s Campus Unanimously Vote To Ratify 4-Year Contract With Significant Wage Increases :: 1199SEIU