Nursing assistants in the Springwell Senior Living Community in Baltimore, members of SEIU 1199, recently ratified a contract which would not only provide wage increases and a retirement plan, but also a length of five years, offering members more stability. Assistants’ wages went up to $10 an hour, and are set to increase 12 percent over the life of the contract. On top of that, members can now contribute into the company-matched retirement fund, which was previously not offered to part-time employees. For members, the wins meant more financial and job security, making it easier to raise children and start a family. “The raises give me a better chance to have something to hold on to,” said Danielle Lynch, who worked at the retirement community for six years. “I should be able to afford a two-bedroom apartment for my daughter and me. I’ll have a chance to get good transportation and move to a better part of town.” Read more here. Photo and reporting courtesy of SEIU 1199.