FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 24, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

AUSTIN, TX – Today, Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now announced that Irving-based non-profit Ability Connection has joined the coalition, further strengthening the statewide movement to address the urgent issue of underfunding of community-based IDD services in Texas, particularly the low wage rates for direct support professionals (DSPs) who tirelessly care for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), which are currently funded at just $10.60 per hour.

The chronic underfunding of DSPs has not only compromised the quality of care for Texans with IDD, but has also led to unsustainable staff shortages and the regrettable closure of essential group homes, leaving many vulnerable Texans without vital support and pushing the community IDD service system to the brink of collapse.

“It’s time for the Texas Legislature to step up and ensure adequate wages are paid to those direct support professionals who care for a vulnerable and often discounted population of individuals with IDD,” said Jim Hanophy, President and CEO of Ability Connection

Coalition Spokesperson Carole Smith expressed deep appreciation for Ability Connection’s partnership, stating: “We are proud to welcome Ability Connection to our broad coalition of more than 40 members fighting to save community IDD services in Texas. With more than 70 years of experience serving Texas’ most vulnerable residents, their understanding of the critical issues facing the IDD service community is invaluable as we continue to raise our collective voice to enact meaningful change during the 89th Texas Legislative Session.”

Ability Connection is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1953 that serves more than 1,000 Texans with all types of intellectual or other developmental disabilities. Ability Connection’s members are individuals with skills, passions, interests, humor, creativity, dignity, and determination. Its experienced, dedicated employees and volunteers work hard to empower them to live their best lives possible by removing barriers that inhibit independence and autonomy. To learn more, visit https://abilityconnection.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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