Direct support professionals are on the front line – Thousand Oaks Acorn

As our community confronts the coronavirus crisis, we applaud the frontline workers keeping us safe and healthy, including medical personnel and first responders and the essential service workers that keep society running but are often overlooked.

Wed like to add the 150,000 direct support professionals in California to the group of unsung heroes rising to the occasion.

DSPs help people with developmental disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, to learn self-care skills, find jobs and live independently. During the pandemic, in residential settings, DSPs continue to help people live independently in their own homes, reinforcing skills such as good hygiene and securing food safely.

While in group home settings, DSPs have been called to do more, as many individuals with disabilities are now sheltering in place 24/7. Out in the community, you will find people with developmental disabilities continuing to work in grocery stores, restaurants and other essential businesses, with their DSPs offering job coaching behind the scenes.

Like the thousands of teachers that have switched to online lessons, DSPs are now providing educational opportunities remotely as program facilities have closed due to shelter-at-home orders. Virtual day services for people with developmental disabilities is new, and everyone is showing creativity and care. Our Project SEARCH professionals are using videoconferencing to sign with an intern who is deaf so he can participate in online classes.

Other individuals receive weekly personalized educational packets, including recipes they can make at home. With the health crisis shining a light on professionals whose work is essential, there have been calls for higher compensation that align with the value of services provided.

Current DSP wages are barely above minimum wage due to the states outdated reimbursement rates. As we emerge from the crisis, lets evaluate whats important in society and recognize those who have helped us through this unprecedented time.

Thank you to all the DSPs who are assisting people with developmental disabilities during these challenging times. We appreciate your work every day, but especially today.

Kim Whitaker Thousand Oaks Whitaker is vice president of PathPoints Ventura County division.

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Direct support professionals are on the front line - Thousand Oaks Acorn