FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 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 Dallas-based Community Homes for Adults, Inc. (CHAI) 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 unfortunately left more than a third of staff positions vacant, threatening to compromise the quality of care for Texans with IDD and leading to the regrettable closure of essential group homes, leaving many vulnerable Texans without vital support.

“CHAI has been providing loving environments in our Dallas group homes for over 40 years, but with the cost of food, electricity, gas and insurance increasing substantially in the last few years, we’re facing significant financial strain,” said Lisa Brodsky, CEO of CHAI. “The amount per hour we receive for our direct care staff is not sustainable and will have a profound effect on how we are able to take care of the most vulnerable adults in Texas. Our state leaders must act now.”

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.

Coalition spokesperson Carole Smith expressed immense gratitude for CHAI’s partnership, stating: “The newest addition of Community Homes for Adults to our coalition is incredibly exciting. Their commitment to caring for individuals with IDD is commendable and we are honored to stand alongside them and fight for competitive wages for the DSPs that faithfully and selflessly serve Texans with IDD.”

Community Homes for Adults, Inc. (CHAI) is committed to providing a full, rich, and safe life for the intellectually disabled adults they serve. Since its inception in 1983, CHAI continues to fulfill its mission of supporting those in need by providing a place to live, life skills education, day habilitation, job training and support, opportunities for social inclusion, multiple healthcare options, and a team of tireless advocates that makes certain every resident and client is treated with respect and compassion. To learn more visit https://chaidallas.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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