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Legislative Breakfast in Pittsfield Draws 200 in Support of Human Services
Pictured: Delores Moore, senior site coordinator at 18 Degrees, speaks about the essential role of human services. Photograph by Isabella A. Lee.
(PITTSFIELD) March 20, 2025 – The Caring Force joined human service workers, advocates and community members in Pittsfield for the 21st Annual Berkshire Legislative Breakfast for Disability Advocacy.
Speakers addressed the critical role of the human services sector while highlighting ongoing challenges, including wage inequities and the urgent need for increased investment in brain injury services, transportation, and access to health care.
A musical performance by Community Access to the Arts during the event. Photograph by Isabella A. Lee.
Delores Moore, a senior site coordinator at 18 Degrees, emphasized that while human service workers play a vital role in helping individuals and families build stable futures, the sustainability of the workforce depends on livable wages.
“Despite having fulfilling work that I love, I had to take on another job to make ends meet,” Moore said. “That means long days and added stress, which can make it difficult to stay fully present for the children I serve.”
“Fair wages would make it possible for workers like me to continue doing this important work without struggling to make a living,” she added.
Moore noted that many human service workers in Massachusetts earn between $20 and $25 per hour, depending on their role and experience. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Living Wage Calculator, a single adult in Massachusetts needs approximately $30 per hour to meet basic living expenses.
She urged lawmakers to support living wage legislation (S.130/H.223), stating, “Fair wages will help ensure that experienced human service workers can continue to support the children, families and communities that depend on us.”
Bryce Remillard, a site manager with Berkshire County Arc, shared her experience working in brain injury services and the financial challenges facing workers in the field.
“The challenge for me and everyone I know is paying bills—but the fear is my future,” Remillard said. “Will I be able to give my daughter, Iris, the life and opportunities she deserves?”
“Even in a management role, my salary doesn’t go as far as people might expect,” she added. “I’m responsible for staff and the care of individuals with brain injuries, yet I’m still balancing rent, childcare, insurance and everyday expenses.”
Randy Kinnas, CEO of United Cerebral Palsy of Western Massachusetts, speaks about supporting independence for people with disabilities. Photograph by Isabella A. Lee.
Policymakers in attendance included State Sen. Paul Mark; State Reps. John Barrett, Tricia Farley-Bouvier and Leigh Davis; and Pittsfield Mayor Peter Marchetti. The event also featured a video message from U.S. Sen. Ed Markey.
About The Caring Force
The Caring Force, the grassroots advocacy initiative of the Providers’ Council, empowers supporters of the human services sector to drive meaningful change. Its mission is to build a stronger Massachusetts—one that protects vulnerable residents while ensuring human services workers receive the pay, recognition and respect they deserve.
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