Groden Center workers vote for potential three-day strike

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Caregivers at the Groden Center have voted to approve a three-day strike starting Wednesday, September 11, according to SEIU 1199NE.

The workers are saying that the strike will go forward “should management fail to come to a contract agreement that encourages wage boosts, recruitment, retention, and safer practices for students.”

The union said that students with autism with multiple needs often require one to one care, and that the starting wage of $18 an hour often requires Groden employees to work multiple jobs.

The 36 Behavioral Specialists in the SEIU 1199NE have been negotiating for a new contract since June of 2024.

ABC6 reached out to Groden Center management for comment on this matter.