Workers at Community Living agencies in Windsor and Brant in southwestern Ontario have overwhelmingly rejected employer-imposed “final offer” votes, sending a clear message to employers across Ontario’s social services sector that low-wage proposals will not be accepted.
Members of CUPE 2345 at Windsor Community Living and CUPE 181 at Community Living Brant both recently voted down forced offers. The results reflect growing frustration among frontline workers who continue to face staffing shortages, burnout, and low wages.
“These results show that our members are united and determined,” said Holly Reinhart, president of CUPE 2345. “The employer had one chance to force this vote, and workers made it clear: we will not settle for wages that don’t keep up with the cost of living or reflect the value of the work we do every day.”
Under Ontario labour law, employers can only force a final offer vote once during bargaining. With both votes now rejected, locals return to the table in a stronger position to negotiate fair agreements.
“This is about respect for social services workers,” said Ryan Sturmer, president of CUPE 181. “Our members are dedicated to supporting our communities, but they cannot continue to do that if wages remain too low to recruit and retain staff, or if our members have to take on second and third jobs just to make ends meet. This vote is a clear call for better.”
The outcomes in Windsor and Brant are part of a broader pattern emerging across Ontario’s social services sector, where workers are pushing back against offers that rely on one-time payments instead of permanent wage increases.
The results align with CUPE’s Worth Fighting For campaign led by social services workers across the province, which highlights the need for fair wages, improved working conditions, and sustainable funding.
Both locals emphasized that responsibility also lies with the provincial government to address chronic underfunding in the sector. With the provincial budget coming later this week, social services workers across Ontario will be watching closely.
“These votes send a message beyond our individual workplaces,” Reinhart added. “Employers can’t fix this alone. The provincial government must step up with the funding needed to support real wage increases. Social services workers across the province will continue to push for increased funding. Our work is vital to our communities, and our jobs are worth fighting for.”
Both locals have returned to the bargaining table with their employers, with CUPE 2345 reaching a tentative agreement earlier this week.