Caregivers tell Kings County supervisors low pay and lack of training threaten in-home care

Four in‑home care providers urged the Kings County Board of Supervisors on June 16 to improve pay and training for caregivers who support elderly and disabled residents.

Julio Gutierrez, who identified himself as a caregiver with SEIU Local 2015, described daily responsibilities for his client, who he named as Leroy, and said caregivers’ wages “are not enough to keep up with the rising cost of living.” Gutierrez told supervisors that without in‑home caregivers many people would be forced into nursing homes and that caregivers’ work preserves independent living.

Katie Akers, an in‑home support provider and private detective, recounted caring for her twin sister after a 26‑year‑old crash left the sister paralyzed from the neck down. Akers said she received no training after her relative was discharged and described the physical and intimate nature of the work, saying, “We deserve to help these people live a dignified life.”

Veronica Ramos, an IHSS provider and union member, said she has cared for one recipient for three years and asked supervisors to consider whether $17.50 an hour is sufficient to pay rent, utilities and other bills. Tasha Hall, who said she has cared for her mother for eight years, echoed those concerns and urged the board to make wages affordable so family caregivers can continue providing care.

The board did not take immediate action during public comment; supervisors heard the statements and proceeded to the rest of the agenda. The speakers requested increased pay and better training; no staff response or staff‑directed follow‑up was recorded on the meeting minutes during the public comment period.

The remarks came during the unscheduled appearances portion of the meeting, where speakers are given up to two minutes each to address items within the board’s jurisdiction.