Yolo County caregivers demand fair wages amid rising living costs

At the Yolo County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 11, 2025, caregivers took center stage, passionately advocating for better wages and working conditions. Representing thousands of In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers, speakers highlighted the struggles they face in providing essential care while grappling with financial instability.

One caregiver, a member of SEIU 2015, emphasized the critical role of caregivers in allowing individuals to remain in their homes, stating, “We provide a crucial service and this should be a high priority in our county's budget.” With the cost of living soaring, many caregivers reported spending over half their income on rent, and the expiration of their contract has left them without wage adjustments for over a year. “We are barely scraping by,” they lamented, urging the board to prioritize their needs in budget discussions.

Aurelia Walker, another caregiver and founder of a nonprofit for special needs children, echoed these sentiments, revealing that 76% of IHSS caregivers work multiple jobs to make ends meet. “Our community needs IHSS care workers, and IHSS workers need your support,” she urged the board, calling for collaboration on a new union contract.

The meeting also featured personal stories from caregivers like Rosa Espinosa, who shared her struggles with unpaid wages and the challenges of caring for clients without adequate compensation. Luis Salcedo, a special needs parent, recounted how he had to leave his job to provide care for his children, highlighting the financial strain that many caregivers endure.

The caregivers' heartfelt testimonies underscored a pressing need for the county to address their demands for fair wages and better working conditions. As they continue to advocate for their rights, the board faces increasing pressure to respond to the needs of those who provide vital services to the community. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the livelihoods of caregivers and the quality of care available to vulnerable populations in Yolo County.