Spotlight on Your Funds

September 2022

Greater New York Benefit Fund Kicks Off Vaccination Campaigns

As COVID-19 continues to pose health risks, the Greater New York Benefit Fund (GNYBF) is informing 1199SEIU members about developments regarding the vaccines and encouraging members to get the new booster shots that target both the original virus and the now-dominant BA.5 variant. The GNYBF regularly updates its website’s COVID-19 resources page, including vaccine FAQs in five languages. In addition, the GNYBF will soon launch its annual campaign to remind 1199SEIU members of the importance of getting vaccinated against seasonal influenza. As a reminder, the GNYBF covers flu shots administered by participating providers and pharmacies, with no out-of-pocket costs to eligible members.

Training and Employment Funds’ Chromebook Lending Program Continues in Fall 2022

The 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds (TEF) are continuing their Chromebook Lending Program for members in New York, Maryland, Massachusetts and Florida who are enrolled in TEF-administered programs this fall. Launched in summer 2021, the initiative supports digital equity and literacy for 1199SEIU members, some of whom lack Internet access or Internet-enabled devices needed to participate in certification and other educational training online. To date, TEF has lent 85 Chromebooks to qualifying members, 18 have been returned, and about 400 remain to be lent. TEF has also lent seven mobile hotspot devices and about 140 remain to be lent. In addition, TEF is providing participating members with digital literacy training, technical support and content designed to encourage self-sufficiency. For more information, members may contact their program’s manager or email Lendingprogram@1199Funds.org.

WorkForce 2000 Summer Youth Employment Program Gives Students Hands-on Experience

The 1199SEIU Child Care Corporation held its third WorkForce 2000 Summer Youth Employment Program from July 5 through August 12. A total of 52 students took part in the program, which was funded through a generous multi-year grant from the New York City Department of Youth & Community Development. Students worked at 14 locations, including eight healthcare facilities: Maimonides Medical Center, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Triboro Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, Boro Park Center, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Long Island Jewish Valley Stream, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, and The New Jewish Home. They also worked virtually and in-person at six non-healthcare worksites. All students worked up to 25 hours per week for six weeks and were paid $15 an hour. For more information about the program or to learn about hosting a student next summer, please email WF2000@1199Funds.org.

The Institute for Continuing Education Presents Upcoming Programs

The 1199SEIU Greater New York Education Fund strengthens the healthcare delivery system by offering 1199SEIU members training and education programs designed to help improve patient outcomes and provide quality care. Please share these opportunities with employees and members at your facility.

The schedule is also available on the program calendar.

Infectious Diseases

Saturday, September 17

8:45 am to 4:30 pm

This six-hour interprofessional symposium will focus on ways to diagnose, prevent and treat infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, monkeypox and tick-borne infections such as Lyme disease.

For more information, visit the Institute for Continuing Education’s web page, call (212) 894-4390 or email Institute@1199Funds.org.

Meet Our Featured Member

Malikah Weston from Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State

Malikah Weston counted on her health benefits to help her deal with anxiety during the pandemic—and survive a brain tumor.