Unsung heroes support challenged individuals

I am very impressed with the recognition of some of the unsung pandemic heroes, the nurses, doctors, truck drivers, PennDOT workers, delivery & grocery store workers, police officers, first responders, firemen, gas station & restaurant workers. One group of unrecognized workers that we need to acknowledge is those providing support to individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

In PA, we serve 14,714 individuals with IDD in group homes. We serve over 57,219 individuals with IDD in the community who continue to receive support from staff who earn approx. $11 an hour & with some working around the clock to see that this vulnerable population receives the support it needs to remain in the community. Some of these staff have died because of the coronavirus. The staff providing community supports to people with IDD need recognition & support.

Many agencies providing important services are now near bankruptcy. Some have had to close their day programs due to social distancing requirements. Others have had to increase staff to provide 24-hour care during the pandemic causing funding deficits of around 25%.

It is my hope the media will soon recognize these unsung heroes & the State will soon provide funding to increase the salaries of direct care staff & to make sure agencies can cover expenses related to the pandemic. I appreciate the government support of individuals & small businesses. We all need to support individuals with IDD & their dedicated staff as well. Thank you.