The union representing more than 150 nursing home workers at Lewiston, N.Y.-based Ascension Living at Our Lady of Peace began a one-day strike March 9.
Members of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East had notified management of their plan to strike unless an agreement was reached, citing concerns over wages and staffing.
"Management saw that everyone is on board for the strike," licensed practical nurse Krista Diez said in a March 8 news release. "We will do what it takes to get the wages everyone needs so we can get some staff in here to help care for these residents."
Union members have been working without a contract since their last contract expired Dec. 31.
Ascension Living, one of the nation's largest nonprofit senior living providers, referred to a previous statement provided to Becker's. In the statement, Ascension Living expressed disappointment about the union's decision to move forward with the strike as well as concern that the action may cause disruptions for residents and their families.
"We have a comprehensive contingency plan in place to ensure our residents and their families experience no interruption of care or service," the statement said. "We are proud of the selfless care our associates provide our residents every day. We have been bargaining in good faith with SEIU and look forward to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement."
Ascension Living is part of St. Louis-based Ascension.