VICTOR SALAMANCA-SANCHEZ

My name is Victor Salamanca-Sanchez and I have worked in construction for about 10 years now. When I started in this line of work I was paid a really low wage, due to not having my citizenship. It was a good day when I finally got my citizenship and legal rights to work, and I was able to pursue my idea of the American dream. I always wanted to join a union so I could stand up for my rights, take classes, have more learning opportunities, and of course earn a family wage to provide for my loved ones. Also, so my wife has the freedom to choose if she wants to work or to stay home to raise our 3 children, or both if she wants. I felt so proud to put in a fair day's work for a fair day's pay and feel safe while performing my work duties. 

You could imagine my disappointment when I was told that my job site was slowing down and I would be laid off. I was able to use my savings to pay bills for a time but eventually, I began to fall behind on rent. I confided in my apprenticeship coordinator and she referred me to Labor's Community Service Agency who helped me get caught up on my bills. While engaging in the rent program, they also told me about other community resources and an amazing holiday program that offered food, gift cards, and gifts for my children in our time of need. It was extremely helpful and they made me feel like somebody cared about protecting all the progress we had made as a family. 

After 5 years of living in the same place, our housing was saved from eviction and I was able to stay in my apprenticeship. I was so relieved! I am so appreciative that a resource like this exists. Thank you Labor's Community!