Home Care Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTION: There just isn't enough money in home care to go around. How can a union change that?
ANSWER: It's a fact, there isn't enough money in home care. That's exactly why home care providers form unions. There are more than 6,000 Independent Providers in Ohio. When we all come together, we create power: the power to affect state budgets, so we can get the money we, and our consumers, deserve.
QUESTION: Won't a union hurt the quality of care we provide?
ANSWER: No. Home Care Providers form unions so they can have more of a say in standards, not less. By uniting and fighting for better training and better conditions, we can improve the quality of care we provide.
QUESTION: What if we went on strike? What would happen to our consumers?
ANSWER: No one wants to go on strike, especially Home Care Providers. Just like everything else in our union, we only go on strike if we vote to strike. In other words, if we as Home Care Providers don't want to strike, we can vote not to strike. Plus, in home care there are other ways to pressure the state without resorting to a strike.
QUESTION: How much are dues?
ANSWER: Dues in SEIU District 1199 are 1.75% of gross pay, or $1.75 for every $100 you make. But more importantly, you don’t pay a dime until you’ve voted on a contract and it takes effect. That way, you see how uniting with fellow Home Care Providers and forming a union benefits you. You can determine if SEIU District 1199’s bargaining expertise gets you a contract with more earning power and a voice on the job. This way, you can be sure it is worth your hard-earned money.
QUESTION: I think forming a union is a good idea. What can I do?
ANSWER: Forming a union isn't easy, and it takes work. Since there are more than 6,000 home care workers in Ohio, goods things can happen when we come together and form a union to make positive changes in the lives of the people we care for every day and earn a living wage. For this to happen everyone has to do their part. To do your part, contact an organizer in your area to find out how you can form a union. Get the ball rolling and you will help yourself and your consumers.