The First Chinese Presbyterian Church Home Attendant Corporation has stopped paying for healthcare for over 750 New York City homecare workers, which could result in their current benefits being cut off. Caregivers say the agency’s actions will negatively affect the elderly and people with disabilities, because many workers may be forced to seek other jobs if they do not have access to medical treatment for chronic health conditions.

“During Hurricane Sandy, I stayed with my elderly client for three days straight, and with help from his children, lifted him in his wheelchair stair by stair, up and down his nine story building so I could get him to his clinic treatments,” said Ms. Yu, who has been at the agency for seven years.

“Then I would wheel him half an hour each way to the clinic, because none of the public transportation was working. During my years as a homecare worker, I injured my back, and now I must have access to medical treatment. Our elderly clients have worked hard all their lives, so I see it as my responsibility to provide them with a safe, dignified and peaceful life. But I’m afraid that if my health benefits get cut off, I might have to find another job or be unable to work.”

Homecare workers perform all the duties that allow seniors, people with disabilities and other vulnerable clients to live safely and independently in their own homes. Caregivers get their clients out of bed, bathe them, dress them, take them to doctor’s appointments, pick up their prescriptions, cook, clean and ensure they take medications on time.

“My mother taught me a deep belief in caring for others, and that’s why I do this work, because I love my client like my own family,” said homecare worker Maximina Delgado. “But if I get sick how can I care for my client, who I’ve been with for seven years, without my prescriptions and my health insurance?”

By 2030, over 73 million Americans--almost 20 percent of the population--will be 65 and older. In New York City, the number of persons ages 65 and older is projected to rise over 44 percent, from just 938,000 in 2000 to 1.35 million in 2030. Advocates for the elderly say that a vital part of caring for the aging population is to make sure homecare workers have good jobs with secure benefits. Caregivers at FCPC Home Attendant Corp. make just $10 an hour, which is below the poverty level for a family of four.

The agency claims it is facing financial challenges related to the transition to managed care, but most other homecare agencies have been able to maintain caregivers’ benefits without interruption. Caregivers have vowed to escalate their efforts to stand up for quality healthcare, including further rallies, enlisting the support of elected and community leaders, and launching a highly visible public information campaign.