Invisible No More

HOME HEALTH CARE WORKERS IN FRESNO STRUGGLE FOR A LIVING WAGE
By Mike Rhodes
December 23, 2002

A candle light vigil was held last week in Fresno to draw attention to the home health care workers need for a living wage. Service Employee International Union local 250, which represents over 10,000 Fresno County home health care workers is negotiating a first contract with the county. Workers are hoping the contract will include $10 an hour plus health care benefits. The county is claiming that because the State of California is having budget problems in Sacramento they are unable to increase workers salary and benefits.

The rally at the Fresno County Courthouse drew a number of community leaders who spoke in support of the workers. The Rev. Bryan Jessup said “here we are gathered in a circle to honor the work that you do...a living wage, respect and appreciation are your do.” Union members and community supporters chanted “can’t survive on $6.75.” Union and holiday songs were sung as County workers left the building.

Two full page ads, one with about 1,000 names of supporters, have appeared in the last couple of days in the Fresno Bee calling on the county to sign a contract that includes a living wage for home health care workers. SEIU 250 can be contacted at: 1279 N Wishon, Fresno, California 93728, (559) 265-4890 pwhalen [at] seiu250.org

To see a video of the candle light vigil and rally go to: http://www.sunmt.org/Homenosilent.html