MEMBER FOCUS
Have-a-Heart Month
Every February, CSEA members come together to observe Have-a-Heart Month, a time to celebrate and support the Dorothy Bjork Assistance Fund. This vital resource, sustained entirely by donations, embodies the heart of what CSEA is all about: union siblings supporting one another in times of need. Whether it’s a sudden illness, a devastating natural disaster, or an unexpected financial crisis, the Dorothy Bjork Assistance Fund provides hope and relief to those who need it most.
The fund, named in honor of Dorothy Bjork, a beloved past CSEA president known for her compassion and dedication to service, is a beacon of solidarity for members facing unexpected hardships. Each year, the fund provides direct assistance through two essential programs: the Humanitarian Assistance Program and the Emergency Assistance Program.
How the Fund Helps
The Humanitarian Assistance Program offers up to $500 in one-time relief to members who need help covering unforeseen expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs, or other unexpected costs. For those whose homes have suddenly become uninhabitable—due to events like wildfires, floods, or earthquakes—the Emergency Assistance Program provides up to $1,000 in immediate aid to help with urgent needs such as temporary housing or relocation costs.
These programs are more than financial lifelines. They represent the care and solidarity of CSEA members who believe in lifting each other up during life’s most challenging moments. Applications for assistance are reviewed by the Humanitarian Committee, a dedicated group of member volunteers who ensure that every dollar donated goes directly to those who need it most.
Real Impact
Behind every application is the story of a CSEA member who found hope and support during a time of crisis. From families displaced by wildfires to members recovering from unexpected medical emergencies, the Dorothy Bjork Assistance Fund has been there to offer a helping hand when it was needed most.
A Generous Contribution
This year, CSEA Member Benefits provider American Fidelity demonstrated their commitment to our members by making a very generous donating to the Dorothy Bjork Assistance Fund to support those affected by the recent devastating wildfires in Southern California. Their generosity underscores the importance of partnership and the collective effort required to ensure that help is available when it’s needed most.
How You Can help
While donations are accepted year-round, February’s Have-a-Heart Month is when we elevate the fund and the vital service it provides. If you’ve never donated before, now is the perfect time to join your fellow members in making a difference. Every dollar contributed goes directly to helping CSEA members in need—your union siblings who might otherwise have nowhere to turn.
To donate, simply visit csea.com/assitance. Even a small contribution can have a profound impact on someone’s life. Together, we can ensure that no member has to face hardship alone.
If You Need Help
Application Process
If you find yourself in need of assistance, here is the application process:
1. Fill out the application here. Submit it to humanitarian@csea.com or call 866-ITS-CSEA (487-2732) and Member Benefits will walk you through the details.
2. Provide supporting documents, such as past due bills. For example, if a member is applying due to a loss in the family, attach funeral bills and/or a death certificate with the application.
3. After the application is submitted, it will be reviewed and, if needed, the member will be contacted for additional documents that help demonstrate need.
4. It is then sent to the Humanitarian Committee for review and final approval.
5. Once approved, the member is notified.