Living in the beautiful, yet geographically unique, Florida Keys has always been a source of pride for my family and me. My husband, like many of our dear friends, works as a local UPS driver. Together, they have sacrificed so much for our community, spending countless hours on the road to ensure that everyone receives their packages promptly and safely. Now, as UPS plans to shut down our small, yet vital, hub in Islamorada and disperse our cherished drivers to either Key West or Homestead, my heart is heavy with worry not just for my family, but for our entire community.

The Florida Keys is not just an area on the map; it's a series of islands that come with their own unique challenges and beauty. One of the key challenges is logistics and transport given our layout, and the current UPS hub in Islamorada plays a critical role in mitigating these difficulties. Having local drivers who know the ins and outs of our intricate roads and who understand the nuances of our deliveries is not only a matter of convenience but a necessity for maintaining the unique fabric of our island life.

Transferring our drivers miles away to Key West or Homestead isn't just a change of location; it's an upheaval in their lives and a disservice to our community, which relies heavily upon their efficiency and familiarity with the area. Forcing these relocations disregards the depth of connection and reliability our current drivers offer and jeopardizes the timeliness of deliveries crucial for local businesses and residents alike.

Keeping the Islamorada hub open is not only vital for operational efficiency but also for sustaining the local economy and preserving jobs in our community. It is essential that UPS recognizes the unique geographical and logistical needs of the Florida Keys and respects the dedicated workers who have given their time and energy to uphold these standards.

I urge UPS to reconsider their decision to close the Islamorada hub. Together, we can advocate for a solution that keeps our local drivers right where they belong, serving the community they know and love. Please sign this petition to show your support and help us keep this valued service running locally in Islamorada.