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The Arkansas Children’s Hospital announced on September 29 that it would increase its living wage to $15 per hour. All employees in their system, including food service and environmental services, will receive a raise.
“One way we continue investing in our people is by ensuring wages reflect the true costs of living so that our employees can earn what they need to support themselves and their families.” Crystal Kohane, Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer wrote in a memo.
Arkansas Children’s, Inc. is the state’s only healthcare system dedicated solely to the state’s more than 700,000 children. It is made up of pediatric hospitals, research institutes, philanthropic foundation and other numerous education and outreach programs, all of which are dedicated to fulfilling a promise to define and deliver unprecedented child health.
Read also: Arkansas: State’s Senate Committee Passes 3 Bills Against COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates
LITTLE ROCK, AR. – Arkansas Children’s Hospital (Photo: Arkansas Business)
Living wage is essential
Living wage and minimum wage are usually interchanged, however the two is different from each other. The minimum wage is set by the local, state, and federal governments as a starting point. In contrast, a living wage is a level of income that provides adequate coverage for basic necessities such as food, shelter, child services, and health care.
The board of directors of Arkansas Children’s approved the adjustment to $15 an hour. They have prioritized ensuring that all employees are paid a decent wage.
“We believe a living wage is essential. At Arkansas Children’s, we want every team member to feel fully supported and fully prepared to help care for sick and injured children,” said Marcy Doderer, FACHE, the Arkansas Children’s President and CEO. “This latest living wage enhancement is part of our ongoing commitment to the team.”
More than 500 employees is expected to see a rise in their pay.
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