Press Releases: 2004 Releases

National Family Caregivers Month (11/18/04)

Statement from Stephen Bennett, President and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy

Washington, D.C., November 18, 2004 – This month, United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) celebrates the commitment and selfless service of family caregivers. We applaud President George W. Bush for recognizing these great Americans by proclaiming November National Family Caregivers Month.

Millions depend on the dedication of family caregivers to provide the vast majority of supports and services they need to live full and productive lives. The success of United Cerebral Palsy is due in large part to the hard work of family caregivers serving as volunteers and advocates.

We also honor our nation’s direct support professionals this month, many of whom care for our loved ones with disabilities at great cost to their personal livelihood.

The national average wage of home care workers in 2000 was just $8.23 per hour, while the average wage of personal care workers was just $7.50 per hour. Many direct support professionals can earn higher hourly wages, and even receive superior health benefits, in less demanding jobs in the fast food or retail industries.

This is why United Cerebral Palsy has endorsed the Direct Support Professional Fairness and Security Act, introduced by Rep. Lee Terry (R-NE) and Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA). If approved, the law will take dramatic strides towards ensuring these workers are compensated fairly.

During this month of thanksgiving for family caregivers, it is our fervent hope that President Bush and Members of Congress will recognize the role of professionals in supporting American families. We urge them to reintroduce and pass the Direct Support Fairness and Security Act in the new Congressional session.

About United Cerebral Palsy

United Cerebral Palsy is one of the nation’s leading organizations serving and advocating for the more than 54 million Americans with disabilities. Most UCP consumers are people with disabilities other than cerebral palsy. Through its nationwide affiliate network, United Cerebral Palsy offers services to individuals, families and communities, such as job training and placement, physical therapy, individual and family support, early intervention, social and recreation programs, community living, state and local referrals, and instruction on how to use technology to perform everyday tasks. For more information, call (800) 872-5827.

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