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NUPGE recognizes Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day

“If the measure of a country is how it treats its most vulnerable citizens, then their work is invaluable.” - James Clancy, NUPGE National President.

Ottawa (06 Nov. 2013) - The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) will recognize the sixth annual Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day on November 6, 2013.

Community social service workers integral part of the care community

For people with developmental disabilities, seniors, people needing employment counselling, new arrivals to Canada and many others, community social service workers make a huge difference in their lives. With services assisting women fleeing abuse or child welfare, their work can make the difference between life and death.

“Community social service workers are making sure the most vulnerable people in our society can be part of the life of every community,” said NUPGE National President James Clancy. “If the measure of a country is how it treats its most vulnerable citizens, then we all need to recognize how valuable their work is."

Over 125 communities and two provinces since 2008 have recognized the importance of CSS workers in a very public way by proclaiming November 6 as Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day.

New survery about the role community social service workers and the services they provide paint an important picture for the future

This year, NUPGE is launching a survey on a range of issues that affect CSS workers as well as issues that affect families using the social services. 

“Cuts to funding for community social services have left people who rely on them and their families struggling to cope,” said Clancy. “At the same time, rising workloads and stagnating wages force caregivers to make choices between providing for their families or caring for the most vulnerable in our society.”

While the survey is being launched as part of Community Social Service Workers Appreciation Day, people will still be able to fill it out after November 6. There are many ways you can help recognize the valuable work of these dedicated staff. 

Find out more by going to CSSworkers.ca to get involved. 

More information:

Community Social Service Workers wesite

NUPGE policy paper highlighting Community Social Services

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE