AUSTIN, TX – In a resolute step towards championing those who care for Texans with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), Time To Care: Save Texas Caregivers Now is proud to announce that The Arc of San Antonio has joined the coalition, further strengthening the statewide movement to address the urgent issue of underfunding faced by direct support professionals (DSPs) who tirelessly care individuals with 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.

“Paying direct support professionals adequately is vital because they are the arms, legs, hearts, and souls of organizations like The Arc of San Antonio, ensuring adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive the compassionate, dedicated care they deserve,” Arc of San Antonio President and CEO Dona Kotzur said. “We are proud to join other organizations in highlighting the invaluable work our direct support professionals do to help individuals with IDD thrive in our community.”

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 Sandy Batton expressed profound gratitude for The Arc of San Antonio’s partnership, stating: “We’re thrilled to welcome The Arc of San Antonio to our expanding coalition. This partnership empowers us to continue fighting for the most vulnerable in our communities. We find strength in numbers and together, we are charting a path towards a brighter future where the people who care for Texans with IDD receive the support they deserve.”

The Arc of San Antonio’s mission is to improve the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and those who care for them. The Arc of San Antonio was founded in 1954 by parents who believed their children with IDD deserved more – to be included in their communities and to pursue fulfillment and happiness like everyone else. Since then, The Arc has evolved with the changing needs and issues people with disabilities and their families face. To learn more, visit https://arc-sa.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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