During a recent government meeting, caregivers from the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program voiced urgent concerns regarding their wages and working conditions. Many caregivers, who provide essential support to disabled and elderly individuals, highlighted the financial strain they face amid rising living costs.

Several speakers, including union representatives and individual caregivers, called for an increase in their hourly wage to $20, up from the current minimum of $16.60. They emphasized that the existing pay is insufficient to cover basic living expenses, including rent, utilities, and healthcare. One caregiver shared her personal struggles, stating that she lives paycheck to paycheck while caring for a disabled individual, and expressed the need for better compensation to sustain her family.

The meeting also featured testimonies from caregivers who manage the care of family members with severe disabilities. They described the physical and emotional toll of their responsibilities, often working long hours without adequate financial support. One caregiver, who has been caring for her son for decades, highlighted the challenges of balancing work and caregiving, stressing that many caregivers are aging and require better pay to continue their vital work.

Union representative Megan Kurzecki articulated the collective frustration, stating, \"We need a raise to pay to live a productive life.\" She pointed out that without adequate compensation, caregivers struggle to provide for their families, which ultimately affects the quality of care they can offer to those they support.

The meeting underscored a broader issue of accountability regarding budget allocations for IHSS workers. Caregivers questioned why funds earmarked for their wages are not being released, demanding transparency and action from local authorities. As the cost of living continues to rise, the caregivers' plea for fair wages and healthcare benefits remains a pressing concern that local officials are urged to address.