During the recent El Dorado County EDC Board Meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the challenges faced by In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers. Lorraine, a caregiver and resident who relocated from Butte County after the devastating Paradise Camp Fire, highlighted the difficulties in finding qualified caregivers due to low wages in El Dorado County. She emphasized that while the county has a higher average of IHSS hours per recipient compared to the state, the pay of $17 an hour is insufficient to attract and retain skilled workers.

Lorraine shared her personal experiences, noting that caregivers in Butte County, despite higher wages, also struggled to provide adequate care. She expressed her fears about the future of caregiving for her son, questioning the quality of care he would receive if current wages remain unchanged. Lorraine pointed out that the geographical spread of El Dorado County complicates access to caregivers, particularly for those without family support.

Duane Camp, a lead negotiator for the United Domestic Workers union and a caregiver himself, echoed Lorraine's sentiments. He highlighted the disparity in wages across California, noting that caregivers in San Francisco earn significantly more, which raises concerns about the sustainability of caregiving in El Dorado County. Camp urged the board to consider the implications of low wages on the availability of caregivers, stressing that the current compensation does not reflect the critical nature of their work.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the pressing need for the county to reevaluate its compensation structure for IHSS providers. As the demand for caregiving services is expected to rise, community members are calling for a contract that ensures fair wages and adequate support for those who provide essential care to vulnerable residents. The board's response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of caregiving in El Dorado County.