Charitable Corner Archives

Local 1504 Member Pursues Specialized Treatment While Battling Stage 4 Colon Cancer

July 9, 2026 Over three years ago, Brother Tim Brock (Local 1504, Sanford, Fla.) was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer that had already spread to his liver. As he prepares to undergo a specialized treatment that’s not covered by any insurance, his medical costs are mounting. Read on to find out how you can help our union brother.

Help Available for Colorado members impacted by devastating wildfires

July 2, 2026 Colorado wildfires have upended members' lives. Read on to see how SMART-TD disaster relief is ready to help while fellow members rally support through donations.

After Succumbing to Pancreatic Cancer, Local 1534 Member’s Family Needs Our Help

July 1, 2026 Brother Ricky Karlecke (Local 1534, Chicago, Ill.) fought a brave battle with an aggressive form of pancreatic cancer that sadly ended when he passed away on June 21, 2026. As his family prepares to lay him to rest, read on to find out how you can help ease their financial burden.

Local 166 Member Needs Our Help After Near-Fatal Heart Attack

June 22, 2026 Brother Paul Barnard (Local 166, Salt Lake City, Utah) recently suffered a massive heart attack at work and is now beginning his long, daunting road to recovery. Read on to learn how you can help him and his family while he is out of work.

Remembering Brother Neal Galloway: A Railroader’s Railroader

March 18, 2026 Local 662 (Richmond, Va.) is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Brother Neal Galloway, a dedicated CSX conductor remembered for his hard work, kindness, and respect earned across Virginia’s rail yards. Read on to learn more about his life and how you can help support his family.

On-Duty Assault Leaves Amtrak Conductor Facing Financial Hardship

February 5, 2026 18 months ago, Sister Heather Steele (Local 168, Chicago) was violently attacked while working as an Amtrak conductor. After exhausting disability support, she and her family are now facing severe financial hardship, including the loss of their home. Read on to learn how you can help our brave union sister.

CTRail Conductor Killed in Car Accident

January 8, 2026 Brother Bernard Gray (Local 352, West Springfield, Mass.) was killed in a car accident last month. A conductor for CTRail, his family needs help with funeral and other final expenses after this sudden loss. Read on to learn how you can show your support.

Members Helped Raise $200K for Brothers and Sisters in Need

January 5, 2026 SMART-TD members helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for union brothers and sisters in need in 2025. From life-changing accidents to devastating house fires, we stepped up to make sure our brothers and sisters were taken care of. Read on to see our solidarity in action.

CSX Conductor, Single Mother Devastated in Head-on Collision

December 23, 2025 A CSX conductor and single mother was seriously injured in a head-on collision while reporting for duty, leaving her facing a long and difficult road to recovery. Read on to see how union solidarity is coming together to support one of our own and how you can help make a difference for her and her daughter.

Conductor, Volunteer Firefighter Injured and Needs our Help

December 9, 2025 While responding to a call as a volunteer firefighter, Brother Chris Brick (Local 316) suffered serious injuries to his face and head. Currently in the ICU, he will require multiple surgeries and needs to have his jaw wired shut. He and his family need our support as he recovers. Read on to learn how you can help our union brother in need.