California – In a historic move, Alameda, Contra Costa, Monterey, and San Francisco Counties have officially declared November 28th as “In-Home Supportive Services Provider Day” through resolutions passed by the Boards of Supervisors and supported by SEIU Local 2015. These resolutions honor the crucial contributions of In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) providers—a majority of whom are women of color and immigrants—who care for older adults and people with disabilities, ensuring they can live with dignity and independence in the comfort of their own homes.
The resolutions recognize the dedication of the more than 72,000 IHSS providers who deliver high-quality care to low-income residents in these four counties. IHSS providers devote their time, compassion, and expertise to assist those in need with a spectrum of supports, from essential daily activities to critical and intimate care services.
The work of in-home caregivers often goes unnoticed. These caregivers not only enhance the quality of life for members of the community but also save taxpayers millions of dollars each year when compared to more costly tax-funded institutional care.
“I’ve been an IHSS provider for 18 years, and I have always been proud to be part of this essential workforce,” said Javeta Johnson, an in-home care provider in Contra Costa County and SEIU 2015 Executive Board Member. “We’re extremely grateful for this gesture of appreciation and respect from the Board of Supervisors.”
“SEIU Local 2015 is proud to have played a pivotal role in advocating for these resolutions,” said SEIU 2015 President Arnulfo De La Cruz. “They recognize the hard work of IHSS providers and emphasize the need to protect programs and services like IHSS as a fundamental commitment to low-income seniors and disabled residents in Alameda, Contra Costa, Monterey, and San Francisco Counties.”
As November is designated as National Family Caregivers Month, the declaration of November 28th as “In-Home Supportive Services Provider Day” offers a unique opportunity to highlight the hard work and dedication that in-home caregivers exemplify every day in caring for both family and non-family members.
SEIU Local 2015 looks forward to celebrating this day as an annual recognition of the invaluable contributions of IHSS providers and their commitment to fostering a compassionate and inclusive community in Alameda, Contra Costa, Monterey, and San Francisco Counties.
To learn more about SEIU Local 2015 visit www.SEIU2015.org or on social media @SEIU2015.