FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 25, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

Urging Texas Legislature to Increase Pay for Direct Support Professionals

AUSTIN, TX – Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now is proud to announce that 29 Acres has joined the coalition, further strengthening the statewide movement to advocate for living wages for direct support professionals (DSPs) who tirelessly care individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The chronic underfunding of DSPs has not only compromised the quality of care provided to individuals with IDD but has also led to the regrettable closure of essential group homes, leaving many vulnerable Texans without vital support.

“We are pleased to be joining the Time To Care coalition to continue this critical advocacy work ensuring that direct support professionals, who are shamefully underfunded, receive competitive compensation for the important work they do so well,” said Dr. Debra Caudy, President & CEO of 29 Acres.

The coalition is urging state leaders to authorize an emergency appropriations request through the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) to raise the salary for community-based DSPs from $10.60 to $15 an hour. This will help address the immediate workforce crisis facing DSPs, ensuring that Texans with IDD can receive the support they need and deserve.

Coalition spokesperson Sandy Batton expressed immense gratitude for 29 Acres’ partnership, stating: “We’re thrilled to have 29 Acres join our coalition and support our fight to increase wages for DSPs serving Texans with IDD. We cannot leave the most vulnerable Texans behind, and that starts with ensuring our state leaders prioritize increased funding for those who tirelessly serve them every day.”

29 Acres is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that people living with autism and other neurodiversity have community and a safe place to live where opportunity and happiness are the standard. 29 Acres uses an evidence-based approach in housing design and individualized support that ensures meaningful growth in employment, independence and health and wellness while creating culture and a deep sense of belonging. To learn more visit https://29acres.org/

Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now is a coalition dedicated to securing competitive wages for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who provide essential care to Texans with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). Through collaboration and grassroots efforts, the coalition strives to enact meaningful change at both the legislative and community levels. Learn more about how to get involved at https://timetocaretx.org/

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