First agreement ratified at Karis Disability Services in Kawartha Lakes

The members of UFCW Local 175 at Karis Disability Services in Kawartha Lakes are celebrating the ratification of their very first collective agreement.

This first collective agreement at Karis Kawartha Lakes brings all of the security that comes with having a Union contract. That includes job protection, wage increases, and a grievance procedure, among other improvements, to help these hardworking caregivers build a better future.

Members will see raises of 2% paid retroactive for all hours worked since April 1, 2025, plus another 2% paid retroactive for all hours worked since April 1, 2026. In the agreement’s third year, members will receive a 1.5% raise.

In addition, following ratification, members will receive signing bonuses of $1,500 for full-time, $750 for part-time, and $375 for casual. Members will also benefit from a retention bonus paid in April 2027 of $250 for full-time, $150 for part-time, and $75 for casual employees.

An Appreciation Premium will pay members an additional $4 per hour for all hours they are compelled to remain on shift.

The Union Negotiating Committee ensured that members maintain their current benefit levels with some improvements including enhanced basic life insurance with a higher maximum, and the ability to purchase optional coverage. Long-term disability will improve to provide more coverage with a higher maximum as well. The dental coverage rate increases to 80% and the basic coverage maximum is now $1,500 per year per family member.

In addition, part-time members will benefit from having a health care spending account of $1,000 each year.

Members will maintain their RRSP provisions, which include contributions from the employer when an employee contributes the following:

• 1% of their gross earnings; the employer will match with 1%
• 2% of their gross earnings; the employer will contribute 4%
• 3% of their gross earnings; the employer will contribute 6%

This first agreement at Karis Kawartha Lakes also includes language covering bereavement, vacations, Union representation, and much more.

The members at Karis Disability Services are developmental services workers who offer a wide spectrum of services and personalized supports to help people living with disabilities and mental health concerns to live inclusive, engaged, and enriched lives in the community. Members of this bargaining unit belong to the UFCW Local 175 Health, Office, and Professional Employee (HOPE) Sector of the Union.

Union Negotiating Committee: Rosemarie Myers, Emma Quilty, and Union Representative Kasiobi Nwankudu.

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