Workers Call on California Leaders to Protect Jobs for People with Disabilities and Service-Disabled Veterans
12 Agosto 2024 - 6:42PM
PRIDE Industries employees, including people with disabilities and
service-disabled veterans, addressed the State Personnel Board
during its public comment period to raise awareness against the
early termination of PRIDE Industries’ custodial services contract
at the California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vacaville. This
critical contract supports over 70 individuals who rely on these
jobs for financial stability and independence.
“This contract is more than just a job for many of us; it’s a
lifeline and we need help,” said Ameer Habeeb, Environmental
Services Director at PRIDE Industries and a service-disabled
veteran. “Losing this contract would be devastating for me and many
of my colleagues who have found purpose and stability through this
work.”
The heartfelt personal stories shared today highlighted the
profound impact of these jobs on the lives of people with
disabilities and service-disabled veterans, emphasizing the
necessity of maintaining the contract.
PRIDE Industries has consistently demonstrated superior
performance, achieving a 98% task completion rate and a 98.3%
quality rating at California Department of Corrections and
Rehabilitation (CDCR) facilities. Their services are crucial in
maintaining the medical facility’s health and safety
compliance.
The organization’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and
support is evident in its extensive training programs, which result
in high retention, low absenteeism, and overall job satisfaction.
As the nation’s leading employer for people with disabilities,
PRIDE Industries serves as an inspiring example of how inclusive
employment practices can lead to operational success and positive
social impact, fostering a sense of inspiration and support.
“Our employees exemplify dedication and resilience,” said Mary
Flores, Vice President of Custodial and Environmental Services at
PRIDE Industries. “We are pursuing a legislative, long-term
solution, but today, we asked the State Personnel Board to help
bring decision-makers to the table and recognize the significant
contributions of these workers and the critical importance of this
contract to their livelihoods and our community.”
The termination of this contract would not only lead to job
losses for over 70 individuals but would also undermine
California’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Maintaining
this contract aligns with the state’s values and its dedication to
supporting people with disabilities and service-disabled
veterans.
PRIDE Industries hopes to work with state leaders and CDCR to
protect this contract and partnerships to continue providing
quality services and having a positive impact on employees’
lives.
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PRIDE Industries delivers business excellence with a
positive social impact. A social enterprise, we
provide facilities operations and maintenance
services, custodial services, contract
manufacturing, supply chain management, packaging and
fulfillment services, and placement services to private
and public organizations nationwide. Founded in 1966, PRIDE
Industries’ mission is to create employment for people with
disabilities. Through personalized employment services, we help
individuals realize their true potential and lead more independent
lives. PRIDE Industries proves the value of its inclusive workforce
model through operational success across multiple industries every
day.
- PRIDE Industries employees gather in effort to protect 70 jobs
at California state medical facility
- PRIDE Industries employees demonstrate in support of keeping
their jobs
Kat Maudru
PRIDE Industries
19167534339
kat.maudru@prideindustries.com