Employees in the community sector represented by SIPTU are set to take industrial action over pay later this month.
It follows the governments failure to include them in the public service pay deal
The sector has not received a pay rise since 2008.
The union says workers provide vital services, caring for the vulnerable and maintaining communities.
Notice of strike action to take place next Wednesday has been served on a number of organisations in Cork including the Irish Wheelchair Association, St. Joseph's Foundation and EmployAbility.
SIPTU Public Administration and Community Division Organiser, Adrian Kane said there is no mechanism available for them to negotiate a pay deal.
