In his Presidential Proclamation of National Family Caregivers Month, President Obama declares, “Day in and day out, selfless and loving 
Americans provide care and support to family members and friends in need. They are parents, spouses, children, siblings, relatives, and neighbors who uphold their unwavering commitment to ensure the lives of their loved ones shine bright with health, safety, and dignity.
During National Family Caregivers Month, we rededicate ourselves to making sure our selfless caregivers have the support they need to maintain their own well-being and that of those they love.”
In Massachusetts, more than 18,000 people on the Department of Developmental Services caseload are cared for by a family member. For many of these caregivers it is an act of love that comes with a big price. Restricted job choices, decreased productivity at the workplace, financial hardship and physical illness due to stress are the price that many caregivers pay for this selflessness act.
HMEA recognizes and honors the struggles of these caregivers. Through our Family Supports program and Autism Resource Central and our collaboration with the Massachusetts Lifespan Respite Coalition and the Supporting Families Campaign, we are working toward securing the supports needed to relieve some of the burdens associated with long term caregiving.
“During National Family Caregivers Month, let us honor their contributions and pledge to continue working toward a future where all caregivers know the same support and understanding they show for those they look after.” says the President. Here at HMEA, we honor caregivers and pledge to work toward securing the support they need not only in November, but every day.
