“It gives me great pride, during these uncertain economic times, to be able to provide our staff, who deliver such vital services to the thousands of children and families we serve, with a sense of security,” said NHA President and CEO Rudolph A. Johnson, III. “NHA is committed to the well-being of its work force and understands how important they are to the future success of our organization and the community we serve.” 

Key components of the mutually beneficial agreement include:

• A 3.09% COLA wage increase, implemented July 1, 2009
• A 1.84% COLA wage increase starting July 1, 2010
• No increase in health care premiums through 2011
• Fiscally responsible contract agreements
• Successful labor consolidation with SEIU 221 over the next three years

“This contract offers workplace enhancements that will allow our members to continue to provide quality service to children enrolled in Head Start programs in San Diego,” said SEIU Local 221 President Eric Banks. “Our bargaining team worked very hard to ensure this contract would positively impact the lives of NHA employees and the community they serve.”

In addition to successfully negotiating a solid labor contract with SEIU 221, NHA has remained committed to its entire workforce of more than 800 employees. In the past two years, NHA has been able to use federal stimulus funds to enhance wages. SEIU has been an advocate for the disbursement of federal stimulus funds to support local economies.

"This contract is important because everybody should be treated fairly and have a voice," said NHA employee and Local 221 Bargaining Team member Belvia Gipson. "A contract helps resolve problems and issues."

The contract signing was attended by SEIU 221’s president and bargaining team, as well as NHA’s president and other executives.