New Hope Village vocational staff are on strike outside of the dayhab center today (Tuesday), protesting their right to fair wages and affirming being a unified team. On Thursday, September 26, New Hope staff were informed that all direct support professionals (DSP) would receive a pay increase, except for the vocational staff. Earlier in the meeting, employers reviewed with DSP the new mission and values of the company, standing for respect, fairness, and valuing all, quality services, choice, integrity, honest and strong moral principles as an undivided team and belonging among all clients and staff. A spokesperson for the protesters said, “We were seen as a valued employee, but hearing we were not worth a competitive wage our peers were receiving is disheartening. We are fighting for a fair wage to be valued, respected, and treated fairly as part of an undivided team.” DSP staff did not walk out and informed supervisors of the intention to strike last week. They will remain on strike until a meeting with the New Hope CEO and a third party to discuss demands can be scheduled. New Hope CEO has released the following statement in regards to the protest “New Hope Village can confirm a small group of staff members recently walked off the job at Day Hab over a disagreement regarding the size of their raises. We respect their right to voice their opinions and concerns, however, naturally are disappointed they have chosen to do so in this way. Management is currently working to address the situation. New Hope Village management has also assured the families of our clients that their loved ones continue to be well taken care of, and we have plans in place to ensure continuation of services without interruption.” Carroll Broadcasting will bring you more information on the New Hope DSP strike in upcoming newscasts.
