The Independent article spotlighted the broader wage crisis

among IHSS workers, who are represented by UDW and are currently calling for a raise to $22/hour. County Supervisors acknowledged the importance of caregivers and the difficult conditions they face, while labor negotiations continue. You can read the full article, which includes more of Mary’s story and the Board’s response, directly on the Santa Barbara Independent’s website here.

The story centers on Mary Bouldin, who cares full-time for her 24-year-old son Tom, who has Coffin–Siris Syndrome. Like thousands of other caregivers in the county, Mary described the long hours, lack of sleep, financial strain, and the emotional toll of providing round-the-clock care while being paid far below a living wage.

Click here to read the full article.