WFWA in need of volunteers

Sacks of potatoes consume a lot of floor space at the Yuba City-based Western Farm Workers Association (WFWA) headquarters, as do numerous bags of clothing. The WFWA office at 759 Sutter Street frequently doubles as a temporary storage center for the many donations distributed by and for WFWA members. Among many wall posters there, one exclaims, “Our benefit program is not a handout. Benefits are available as a right of membership because every member is expected to contribute as much of him or herself as possible.” And there are plenty to share the benefits, around 10,000 members locally. The WFWA has aided Yuba-Sutter’s forgotten and impoverished migrant laborers since 1987, in the wake of disastrous flooding near Marysville. The WFWA now serves as one in a network of 43 sister organizations nationwide. “The Western Farm Worker,” a free, bimonthly newsletter of the WFWA, can be found around the Yuba College campus-or subscribed to for a suggested $18 yearly donation.With financial and material donations from local businesses and citizens, the WFWA offers a wide range of support services within an “11 Point Benefit Program,” including emergency food, clothing, and a job referral service. A monthly membership fee of only 62 cents is not obligatory. Aside from financial consultation, members in need are eligible for non-emergency dental treatment, comprehensive medical care, an alcohol information center, and child-care through networking. The WFWA now needs greater participation from its own volunteers, as well as the community.”Every one is responsible for a solution to the problems the working people face, and the WFWA’s benefit program is open to all who need it,” said Esteban Rosales, WFWA Administrative Assistant and Vocational Director. “These benefits are only a temporary solution.” Rosales, who described the living conditions of local farm workers as “very bad,” said that volunteers are needed as advocates for members in need of medical and legal services, as office workers, or as recruiters during WFWA membership canvasses throughout the community. According to Rosales, anyone may volunteer, whether they are students or professionals. Those interested may inquire by visiting or calling the WFWA headquarters, at (530) 790-0980.