Direct Care Workers Deserve More

Now, more than ever, we see just how essential direct care workers (DCWs) are to the well-being of older adults and people living with disabilities. They support our loved ones, our partners, and our neighbors on a daily basis. And yet, DCWs struggle under poverty wages - often under $12/hour - inadequate benefits like paid time off or health insurance, and a lack of recognition and respect for their critical role in our care economy. It's estimated Michigan will need to fill 178k DCW jobs by 2028 to meet rising demand. We're already seeing the damaging effects of this workforce shortage - persons living with disabilities and older adults unable to secure the support they need to remain healthy and safe within their own communities. Now is the time to act. We must compensate this workforce commensurate with the essential nature of their work, their high level of skill, and their commitment to caring for others. I strongly urge you to expand and extend the $2.25/hr DCW premium pay, including benefits, annual cost of living increases tied to inflation, and a special fund to support DCW training that leads to a recognized credential and career pathway. Together, we can create a care infrastructure that honors older adults, people living with disabilities, and the direct care workers we all rely upon. Thank you.

▶ Created on June 1, 2021 by Emily