BUFFALO, N.Y. — Sweet Jenny's is offering those affected by the Sumitomo layoffs free ice cream to sweeten their days following the devastating news of the closure. The ice cream shop will also be offering free ice cream to those on strike who work for Milk-Bone.
Sumitomo Rubber USA announced Thursday, Nov. 7 that it is closing its Tonawanda facility.
Sumitomo makes automotive tires for passenger cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles. Production at the Tonawanda facility has since been halted.
The closure will impact 1,200 hourly and 350 salaried employees.
Workers at the Buffalo Milk-Bone plant joined the picket lines on Oct. 29 following union negotiations.
According to the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers union (BCTGM), 165 members who make Milk-bone dog treats at the JM Smucker plant are fighting back against increased health care costs, low wages, and their treatment by the company.
In a post made by Sweet Jenny's on Thursday, Nov. 21 they wrote the following caption:
"Our hearts go out to all of the people affected by the Sumitomo Rubber layoffs, and The Milk Bone strike. We want to extend the offer that if you and your family want to come in for some ice cream, you can do so on us. We just require some proof of said employment or former employment."
See the full social media post attached below for more.