By Araceli Gaona
October 2017 | 2017 Fall Newsletter
Working as an In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) care provider can be extremely fulfilling for the individuals who are choosing to perform this vital work. IHSS care providers tirelessly help the most vulnerable in our community. Care providers may work long hours; perform daily, physically demanding tasks; and place the needs of others above themselves.
IHSS care providers in Santa Clara County work more than 100 hours per month, on average, and roughly 4,300 providers work more than 160 hours per month. On average, a care provider may remain with their consumer for five to six years.
These numbers attest to what many already acknowledge: a solid commitment exists for care providers–both family and non-family–in this line of work. Being a care provider requires compassion, empathy, and willingness to adapt to the many challenges that can come up at a moment’s notice.
This work requires strength and adaptability; and is best suited for those who do not let a long challenging workday get them down; and who have a genuine passion for helping others. Care providers are committed to improving the quality of life for consumers across the IHSS program.
This November, in honor of National Caregivers Month, join Public Authority Services in giving a heartfelt Thank You to all care providers, especially the 23,150 IHSS care providers in Santa Clara County. These special individuals are dedicated to providing unwavering support and compassion to their clients; and they are deeply appreciated.