Gurpreet Kaur urges San Joaquin County to raise IHSS worker wages for community care

During the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 8, 2025, a poignant plea from Gurpreet Kaur, an In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) worker, highlighted the pressing need for wage increases for caregivers in the community. Kaur, who has two years of experience in the IHSS program and 17 years as a registered nurse in Ireland, shared her personal journey and the challenges faced by caregivers.

Kaur explained that after moving to the U.S. in 2019 to support her family, she found herself in a difficult financial situation due to rising living costs and the limitations of a single income. Her role as an IHSS provider allows her to utilize her extensive experience in caring for others, but it comes with significant challenges. She recounted an injury sustained while lifting a client due to inadequate equipment and expressed concern over her lack of access to health care through her job, forcing her to recover without support.

Kaur's testimony underscored the financial strain on IHSS workers, who often face physical challenges while earning wages that do not meet their living expenses. She urged the board to consider raising wages for IHSS workers, emphasizing the importance of retaining skilled caregivers to ensure that vulnerable individuals in the community receive the quality care they need and deserve.

The board's response to Kaur's appeal and any subsequent actions regarding wage adjustments for IHSS workers will be closely watched, as the outcome could significantly impact both caregivers and the individuals they serve in San Joaquin County.