In the Fiscal Year 18 (FY18) Budget, The Arc of New Jersey, in partnership with the Coalition for a Direct Support Professional (DSP) Living Wage, is advocating for a $1.25 an hour wage increase for the DSPs who support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DSPs are the individuals that work with and support your loved one every day and they are critical to a successful life in the community. The Governor's Budget Address is fast-approaching, but before the fiscal outline is finalized, the Coalition is urging people to participate in a Call-In Day to the Governor's Office today (Friday, February 17). The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute supports the Coalition's efforts and we ask you to please participate. The Governor must hear from YOU about why this increase is so important. The more calls we make to the Governor's Office, the stronger our message will be. Additional details and sample talking points can be found in the message below.

We need YOU to contact the Governor today (Friday, February 17) via phone or fax, and urge him to include this increase for our DSPs. It is critical for the Governor's Office to receive a large volume of communication on this very important issue. Here is a sample of what you can say:

How to Contact the Governor: 

• Call the Governor's Office at 609-292-6000.  If the phone lines are busy, don't give up! We need the Governor's office to receive as many calls as possible, so if you can't get through the first time, make sure you keep trying.
• Write out a message to the Governor, or use the talking points provided above, and fax it to the Governor's Office at 609-777-2922

  .  When choosing this option, be sure to sign your name at the bottom and include your home address.