PSW Wage Enhancement Funds are Needed Immediately
TORONTO, October 8, 2021 -The temporary wage enhancement announced by the government on June 11, 2021, was a welcome relief for frontline Personal Support Workers (PSWs) and providers in the home and community sector. As a sector however, we remain concerned that this funding has not yet been released and the burden it places on cash strapped providers.
As of August 23rd, there was another announced extension of the temporary wage enhancement to October 31st but the June funding has not been released.
“It is astounding that given the incredible work by our frontline staff and the importance that this enhancement is to our sector, that there would not be a timely administration of funds” says Deborah Simon, CEO of the Ontario Community Support Association. “Some of our agencies simply do not have the resources to provide this level of cash flow for their PSWs and as a result, some have had to temporarily halt paying the enhancement.” says Simon.
The home and community care sector is in crisis due to lack of investments, significant shortages of PSWs due to compensation, and a lack of inclusion in government incentives for the sector. The cash outlay to provide this enhancement in many cases exceeds the funding available in many organizations.
“Candidly, what these workers need is a permanent increase but these drastic delays in administering temporary funds is unacceptable. The government must immediately ensure these past funds are approved and transferred as required and ensure the October 31st extension funding is appropriately managed” says Simon.
About OCSA
Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) represents close to 230 not-for-profit organizations that provide home care and community support services that help seniors and people with disabilities live independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. These compassionate and cost-effective services improve quality of life and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, emergency room visits and premature institutionalization. They are the key to a sustainable health care system for Ontario. For more information, visit www.ocsa.on.ca
and https://twitter.com/OCSAtweets.
To arrange an interview and more information please contact:
Janice Bedore
Executive Assistant
416-256-3010
1-800-267-6272, ext. 224
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OCSA has partnered with Cowan Benefits™ as our preferred group benefits partner to help member organizations explore flexible, sustainable employee benefits solutions tailored to the community support and not-for-profit sectors. As the OASSIS program transitions, Cowan will provide OCSA members with expert guidance, dedicated support and flexible group benefits options designed to balance affordability, stability and employee wellbeing. Whether organizations are looking for comparable coverage, greater flexibility or a longer-term benefits strategy, Cowan will work with them to identify solutions that meet their needs and support a smooth transition.
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