Nov. 20 – Santa Clara County home care workers served the Board of Supervisors pumpkin pie on Tuesday, reminding the elected officials that the slices represent significant cuts the workers have taken over the years to help the county and community through budget deficits.
- 3.6% cut in hours so that the state could fix its budget deficit
- .15-cent wage reduction even as today’s cost of living goes up
- $14 increase in out-of-pocket health care contributions
Overall, workers have given back a total of 6.5% in concessions while earning 17% below self-sufficiency wage for a single individual living in San Jose, which is $14.73.
Said Tina Nguyen, in her speech before the officials:
“Trust me when I say 6.5% is a big number for working families who live from paycheck to paycheck. While we are dedicated to public service and our community, the reality is that even as our work allows our clients to enjoy independence, we ourselves struggle because of our vulnerable economic status.”
Santa Clara County no longer faces extra risk as the homecare program grows, thanks to the cap on the county obligation and the federal funding through Community First Choice Option program.
The local and state economy show positive signs of rebounding. The county is in a position right now to help the front-line workers achieve economic independence.
“We hope we can count on your support, thank you,” said Nguyen.
