Gov. Hochul unveiled her FY 2025 Executive Budget, which included only 1.5% Cost-of-Living (COLA) adjustment and no mention of the Direct support Wage Enhancement for voluntary service providers like AHRC Nassau. Now is the time to urge state representatives to push for much-needed funding to bolster the wages of the essential direct care workforce. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) like Queens resident Craig White, are an essential lifeline for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. He started as a DSP in 2021 and works in AHRC Nassau’s Cedar St. residence.

Craig serves as a trusted support for Harrison “Harry” Bosnack, who benefits from residential and community-based services. Craig helps Harry with everything from shopping, medical appointment to teaching and reinforcing daily life skills like laundry and shaving.

Like many DSPs, Craig took on a second role to supplement his income. He understands the value of the work he does and the impact he has on people’s lives.
“There are unlimited roles for a DSP, but our priority is the residents. No matter what they need we take care of it before we do anything. We bathe them, help them dress, prepare their food, get them to program, it’s unlimited,” said Craig.

Craig is a trained professional who directly contributes to the well-being of people living with I/DD and deserves an equitable wage.

Show your support for a 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and Direct Support Wage Enhancement (DSWE) today at ahrc.org/getinvolved/advocate