Homecare Workers Brave Cold, Hold Candlelight Vigil

Homecare Workers Brave Cold, Hold Candlelight Vigil

Not even harsh winter temperatures could stop SEIU Local 521 homecare workers from fighting for our most vulnerable residents.

When faced with cuts that would impact the elderly and disabled, homecare workers took action and organized a candlelight vigil in Gilroy on Tuesday.
Bundled up in hats and jackets to protect against the cold, workers lined the corner in front of St. Mary's Catholic Parish and held candles and signs to call attention to proposed homecare cuts.

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The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors is considering cutting homecare wages by 30 percent. This would be disastrous, affecting recipients' quality of care as good providers would need to look for better-paying jobs to live in the high-priced Bay Area.

"I can see that you’re committed," said Gilroy City Councilman Peter Arellano, who attended the vigil and expressed strong support for maintaining homecare funding.

Norma Gutierrez, a homecare worker who cares for a family member, said providing quality care is already challenging, and cuts will only make it more difficult to provide quality care.

Watch the video below: