MANCHESTER, Conn. (WFSB) – Around 500 caregivers across three Connecticut agencies are officially on strike, demanding higher pension contributions to protect their retirement futures.
The members of SEIU 1199 New England walked off the job early Thursday morning. The strike includes workers from Network Inc., Caring Community, and Alternative Services Inc. According to union officials, the caregivers are asking for a modest 0.2% increase in monthly pension contributions—about $700 to $1,500 per agency.
They say if that increase doesn’t happen, they could see their pensions slashed by hundreds of dollars each month—jeopardizing their ability to afford basic necessities in retirement.
“We want to make sure that working people are getting what they need in this moment when inflation is hitting people hard and costs are increasing,” said SEIU 1199 President Rob Baril. “Workers want to make sure they are secure both now and in the future with their retirements.”
For retired caregiver Pam Kelly, the pension means being able to afford groceries and bills. “I depend on this pension every month,” she said while rallying in support of current workers.
Amy Stoddard, a caregiver with Alternative Services Inc., says the impact of losing even $300 a month would be devastating. “That could be lifesaving medication or the cost to heat your home,” she said. “How do we expect people to adjust to a loss that significant on a fixed income?”
As negotiations continue between the union and the agencies, workers say they’ll remain on the picket line from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until an agreement is reached.
This labor action impacts individuals and families who rely on day programs and community home services provided by these organizations.
Caring Community CT released a statement on the strike:
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