October 30, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

Urging Texas Legislature to Support Community-based IDD Services

AUSTIN, TX – Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now is proud to announce that San Antonio-based disability service organization Power to Marc has joined the coalition, further strengthening the statewide movement urging the Texas Legislature to provide enhanced support for community-based services for Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Power to Marc empowers individuals with disabilities, their caregivers, and professionals that serve them with tools, education, and training necessary to foster the active participation in their medical, dental, and personal care.

For decades, direct support professionals (DSPs) who serve Texans with IDD have been chronically underfunded, with an hourly reimbursement rate set by the Texas Legislature of just $10.60. At a time when inflation is soaring and the cost of living continues to rise, the compassionate men and women who care for vulnerable Texans are struggling to make ends meet. As a result, community-based service providers are facing unsustainable staff vacancy rates and closures, undermining their ability to provide quality care for the most vulnerable Texans. Since March 2024, the Time To Care coalition has been urging state leaders to appropriate funds to increase wages for community-based DSPs.

“At Power to Marc, we recognize that Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the cornerstone of quality care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). By joining the Time To Care coalition, we are reinforcing our commitment to support the well-being of our DSPs, who deserve fair compensation for the essential services they provide,” said Power to Marc CEO Allan Castro. “Together with Time To Care, we proudly urge the Texas Legislature to take decisive action to ensure DSPs receive competitive wages that reflect their invaluable role in our communities.”

Coalition spokesperson Sandy Batton thanked Power to Marc for their partnership, stating: “The team at Power to Marc understands the importance of empowering those who care for individuals with IDD and the complex challenges they face. We are excited to welcome Power to Marc to our growing coalition, and deeply thankful for their work to enhance the quality of life for individuals with IDD.”

Power to Marc’s mission is to empower individuals impacted by disabilities through focused, individualized access to medical, dental and personal care. Their proven process eliminates restraint and reduces sedation, focusing ondignity, respect, and empowerment. By serving individuals with disabilities, their caregivers and care professionals, Power to Marc fosters a supportive community and enhance user experiences with our innovative approach. To learn more, visit https://powertomarc.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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