Going the extra mile — On May 14, CSEA Finger Lakes DDSO executive board members gathered early in the morning at Leo’s Bakery & Deli to collect their trays of food to drop off at group homes in the Rochester area. Left to right: Doug Drake, Sean Ledwith, Eve Reid, Sally Ledwith and Eric Prince. All photos Ove Overmyer, CSEA ©2020
WNY – Over the past few days, officers and board representatives from CSEA Finger Lakes DDSO L436 have made visits to 146 group homes in a ten-county area dropping off messages of thanks and trays of cookies to brighten an otherwise difficult day.
Local President Sean Ledwith says the idea to individually reach out to all the homes was a no brainer.
“During the pandemic, our members have stepped up to the plate and delivered exceptional services 24/7 under extraordinary circumstances,” said Ledwith. He added, “Our board felt compelled to personally thank everyone by visiting each home and sharing a message of thanks—and cookies too.”
While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge CSEA members and take lives indiscriminately, CSEA is working hard to protect the interest of all employees and to specifically make changes to end the mandatory overtime nightmare for some direct care workers.
CSEA Western Region President Steve Healy says it’s cruel for members not to know if they will be able to go home after a regular shift, oftentimes designated to mandatory overtime in a moment’s notice. He also quickly admits he is very inspired by how our DDSO members have been performing during the healthcare crisis.
“How can you properly take care of yourself, a family and your personal business when your work schedule can be upended on a daily basis?” says Healy. “Let me assure you, we are presently working at the highest levels of management across the state to address these work issues and come up with creative solutions to get more staff hired as quickly as possible. We will not stop pressing this issue until it happens.”
CSEA member Thom DuPuis, who works at a group home in Ontario County, shared his appreciation for the cookie drop-off on Facebook, saying, “The small gesture was a bright spot in our day, during these difficult times.”
Ledwith wants all OPWDD / DDSO workers to know their caring spirit and perseverance means everything to the individuals and families who have loved ones residing in group homes. “I am so proud of how CSEA members have handled this challenge,” he said. “We hope and pray they all stay safe and healthy during this very trying time.”
-Ove Overmyer
