Hundreds of California nursing home caregivers hope to see improvements under a new agreement negotiated by the United Long-Term Care Workers' Union, SEIU 6434.
Seven new contracts provide wage increases of $1.50/hr over three years, employer contributions to education and training funds, and increased contributions to employee healthcare. Over 700 workers will be affected.
"This is a big deal for me and my family," said Ruby Coleman, a CNA at Skilled Sharon Center. "For years we've struggled just to pay the bills and heaven forbid I ever got sick. But now with a raise and health benefits, my family and I can breathe a little easier."
The caregivers' union says better pay often results in less staff turnover, ensuring an experienced, stable group of caregivers for homebound residents.
The changes are possible due to collaborative efforts to pass the Nursing Home Quality Care Act (AB 1629), which provides additional funding for nursing home facilities.
California facilities affected by the new agreement include the Lighthouse Healthcare Center, Vernon Convalescent Hospital, Skilled Sharon Care, SunBridge Paradise, Sun Mar North Valley Nursing Center, Country Villa Health Services, and the Knott Avenue Care Center.
The United Long-Term Care Workers' Union represents over 160,000 long-term care workers in California counties.