MANCHESTER, Conn. (WFSB) – Around 500 caregivers across three Connecticut agencies are officially on strike, demanding higher pension contributions to protect their retirement futures.<\/p>\n
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\u2014about $700 to $1,500 per agency.<\/p>\n
They say if that increase doesn\u2019t happen, they could see their pensions slashed by hundreds of dollars each month\u2014jeopardizing their ability to afford basic necessities in retirement.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe 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,\u201d said SEIU 1199 President Rob Baril. \u201cWorkers want to make sure they are secure both now and in the future with their retirements.\u201d<\/p>\n
For retired caregiver Pam Kelly, the pension means being able to afford groceries and bills. \u201cI depend on this pension every month,\u201d she said while rallying in support of current workers.<\/p>\n
Amy Stoddard, a caregiver with Alternative Services Inc., says the impact of losing even $300 a month would be devastating. \u201cThat could be lifesaving medication or the cost to heat your home,\u201d she said. \u201cHow do we expect people to adjust to a loss that significant on a fixed income?\u201d<\/p>\n
As negotiations continue between the union and the agencies, workers say they\u2019ll remain on the picket line from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until an agreement is reached.<\/p>\n
This labor action impacts individuals and families who rely on day programs and community home services provided by these organizations.<\/p>\n
Caring Community CT released a statement on the strike: <\/p>\n
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