Orlando's News 13 reported today that the NBA Players Association decided to help out some Disney workers in need. Even after Walt Disney World reopened its parks to guests, many employees did not return to work and still more were laid off. Many of these cast members were left with nowhere else to go for work with the holiday season approaching.
One effort to support these former cast members was reported on during a recent episode of EarzUp In Depth! The union to which many cast members belong, UNITE HERE Local 737, put together a food bank that often serves more than 1,200 people each week. This burden is taking its toll on the union's resources. Earlier in December, the food bank reported it was running low on food and funds.
The NBPA is the union representing professional basketball players. Following an unprecedented playoff season conducted entirely on Disney World property, the players decided to give something back to the people who took such good care of them. The union donated $50,000 to the food bank just in time for Christmas.
Local 737 representatives expressed their gratitude, stating also that the donation will help keep the doors open through the stressful holiday season. Thousands of cast members remain unemployed in both Disney World and at the Disneyland Resort. Efforts like these help to reduce the strain.
If you would like to contribute to the Local 737 food bank, you can make donations here. United Workers Local 50 in Anaheim and the Power of One Foundation have hosted several pop-up food banks to support Disneyland cast members. If you would like to contribute to their efforts, you can do so here.
