Advocate to Raise Wages for DSPs
It takes a lot to be a DSP. Despite the high demands of the job, DSPs currently earn only slightly more than the minimum wage. This low pay is forcing these essential workers to look for other jobs so they can afford food, shelter, and basic life necessities. As a result, currently 25% of these jobs are vacant, and people with IDD are left without the support they need.
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) enable people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) to live full, prosperous lives. They work in homes, in schools, and in the community to support individuals with disabilities.
Join the Statewide CCO Family and Member Advisory Collaborative to tell Governor Hochul and your legislators to end the DSP workforce crisis now. NYS must fund and enact a permanent wage increase to support the direct support professionals who support the individuals who need it most.
Ways to Advocate
1. Call the Governor!
Governor Hochul: 518-474-8390
Assembly Speaker Heastie: 518-455-3791
Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins: 518- 455-2585
Please use the following script to guide your conversation when you connect to the leaders of the State legislature as they negotiate the final budget with the Governor. View script here.
2. Send a Letter to the Governor
Use the form to the right to send a letter to the Governor in just one click.
One-Click campaigns are easy to use and make me feel like my voice is heard with one click of a button.” –John Wannamaker, LIFEPlan parent
This is your opportunity to take action now!