Members of IAM District 776 gathered on March 24 to provide food and essential resources to unhoused individuals in the Fort Worth community. The event took place even as many members prepared for upcoming contract negotiations, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to local service.
The annual District 776 Homeless Drive, now in its third year, aims to unite union members and supporters in an effort to address urgent needs among those less fortunate. Texas State Senator Taylor Rehmet, who is also a member of District 776, participated in the initiative alongside other volunteers.
According to organizers, the event is part of a broader tradition within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), where locals and districts maintain strong ties with their communities during times of need. Eric Meriwether, Business Representative for District 776, said: “Our retired President Paul Black shared something with me during his retirement party that I carry with me always: Never forget where you come from. I’ve always lived by that, and it guides everything I do for our members and our community.”
After distributing donations throughout the area, participants celebrated their efforts with classic Texas barbecue and looked ahead to continuing the event next year.
The ongoing involvement of union members highlights their focus on supporting both workplace interests and broader community welfare.
