Tuesday, February 12, dozens of SEIU 1021 members at Progress Foundation, a San Francisco-based nonprofit organization that provides housing and residential services across the city, Sonoma County, and Napa County for people with mental illness and severe substance abuse issues, picketed the agency’s central office during their lunch break. They are demanding a fair contract, including safety policies and protocols and equitable benefits.

“Some of my coworkers have been attacked by some of our clients, and there really aren’t good safety protocols in place,” said Ramon Cossey, a residential counselor in an acute diversion unit at Progress Foundation and SEIU 1021 shop steward. “I haven’t been trained in anything safety-related, and the only safety protocol we have currently is keep an eye out for yourself and watch out. I was stuck by a needle while I was on the job and I had to take medication for a month to make sure that I’m safe, because I wasn’t properly trained in safety protocols. That’s the case across the programs.“

Safety issues are compounded by inappropriate placements—accepting clients who need a higher level of care than what can be provided at a residential facility that does not have any full-time medical staff.

Workers say that Progress Foundation suffers from very high turnover, due to the combination of unsafe working conditions and low pay. Currently, the salary schedule caps out at five years with no longevity increases or bonuses, meaning pay becomes stagnant very quickly. The high turnover has led to chronic short staffing, which makes the environment less safe for employees and clients alike.

Workers are demanding improved safety policies, protocols, and training, as well as a pay structure that rewards longevity and equitable benefits. The organization currently offers a 403(b) match only to employees who are not part of a union.

Check out coverage of the rally on KTVU here.