The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has donated $100,000 to the American Red Cross' Hurricane Helene Relief fund. The union, which has been prominent this week due to its port strike along the U.S. East and Gulf coasts, announced in an emailed news release that it is urging its local chapters to participate in the fundraising campaign. "Recent hurricanes have caused significant devastation, affecting countless families and communities along our coastlines," stated ILA President Harold Daggett in the release. "In times like these, it is crucial that we come together to support those who need it the most. With this in mind, we are reaching out to ask for your assistance in contributing to hurricane relief efforts." Daggett acknowledged the union's fundraising initiative coincides with the second day of their strike. "We know the timing is difficult, and many of you are already making sacrifices in our fight for a fair contract," Daggett said. "However, if your Local is in a position to provide a donation, no matter how small, it will make a meaningful difference to those affected by these natural disasters." This donation arrives as industry analysts express concerns that the strike could hinder hurricane relief operations by impeding the delivery of essential supplies. In a separate news release, Leslie Sarasin, CEO of FMI, The Food Industry Association, called for a return to negotiations.