Caregivers are lifelines for their clients. We are doing the essential work of keeping vulnerable people home and safe.
During the pandemic, the federal government recognized the essential work of caregivers – who are disproportionally Black women, Indigenous women, women of color and Immigrant women – and increased funding for long-term care.
Our Union fought hard and turned that funding into hazard pay for our caregivers in Washington state. For at least 14 months during the pandemic, caregivers are closer to a living wage because they are receiving an ADDITIONAL $2.50 an hour or more in hazard pay.
But caregivers should always make a living wage, not just during a pandemic. We’re fighting for ongoing increased federal support for home care and home care workers through the American Jobs Plan. That would help us win ongoing improvements in wages and benefits for home care workers.
The American Jobs Plan includes a historic new investment in home care services and home care workers across the country. It is a huge step tward making sure caregivers get the dignity and respect we deserve.