Mineola-based Union Raises More Than $20,000 for Breast Cancer Research

Members of UFCW Local 342 recently raised more than $20,000 for breast cancer research at a variety of member events throughout October.

With offices in Mineola, the union represents nearly 10,000 workers in the retail food, wholesale food processing, distribution and manufacturing industries.

Members raised the money through two Halloween parties, sponsorships at The American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks and one of their big fundraisers at The Waterview Club in Bayville.

“The support Local 342 provides for breast cancer is amazing, and I’m so glad they spend the time and money to help out every year,” said Marie Castellano, who has been a member of the union for nearly 30 years and works at the Pathmark in East Rockaway.

The union began raising money for breast cancer awareness and walking at Jones Beach in 2001, but “our dedication to this cause has only grown since then,” said Kelly Egan, Local 342 Safety, Education, Cultural, and Activities Director. “Over the last several years, more and more women who are members at the local have bravely come out with stories about their battles with breast cancer, and because of this, the union has now made this cause our flagship charity.”