Caregivers at Providence Community Health Center hold informational picket

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — SEIU 1199NE, the union representing about 260 Providence Community Health Center caregivers, held an informational picket at four PCHC locations on Wednesday.

Dozens of PCHC employees gathered at the picket Wednesday night, calling for fair wages, safe staffing, affordable healthcare, and secured paid time off.

According to SEIU 1199NE, contract negotiations with PCHC began in August.

The union claimed that PCHC’s proposals double the cost of employee’s health insurance, decrease their paid time off, and uniform allowance.

“We are proud of the work we do to provide care to all who need it, regardless of their insurance or financial status,” former PCHC Medical Assistant Simone Lopes said. “But recently, we had over 100 layoffs, including myself, which impacts our patients with longer wait times and potentially lowering care quality. Fair wages will make sure professionals stay at PCHC and provide the care our patients need.”

ABC6 News has reached out to PCHC for a statement and are waiting to hear back.