Op-Ed | Why we must help New York's human service workers | amNewYork
Briefly

New York's human service workers, vital for community support, receive inadequate compensation despite their essential roles in various critical services. Governor Hochul's proposed 2.1% cost-of-living adjustment is insufficient, equating to only $22 per week for many workers. This fails to cover their basic living expenses amidst rising costs. The Human Services Council advocates for a 7.8% increase, emphasizing fairness for this predominantly women-led, diverse workforce that supports vulnerable populations, particularly in challenging times such as the pandemic and economic instability.
For a nonprofit worker in New York City earning the median salary of $55,000, the proposed adjustment amounts to just $22 extra per week before taxes.
Today, they're on the frontlines managing the fallout from federal immigration crackdowns, supporting seniors, and counseling those facing a growing affordability crisis.
This modest increase does not reflect the value of a workforce that is overwhelmingly women-led and majority Black and Brown.
The Human Services Council, which represents 170 nonprofit organizations, is calling for a 7.8% cost-of-living adjustment to ensure that these workers are paid fairly.
Read at www.amny.com
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