Providers warn immigration and program changes are shrinking DSP workforce; one provider cites loss of 119 staff

During a discussion following HSRI's briefing, providers and advocates raised operational impacts that complement the survey data. Chris White, identified in the meeting as a former board chair of ADP, said his organization lost "119 staff this year due to the Haitian TPS," linking immigration status changes to immediate staffing shortages and difficulty opening new programs. Chris and other participants argued that some apparent stabilization metrics can mask constrained capacity when providers are not expanding services.

Speakers also discussed retention dynamics, noting two coexisting groups: long‑tenured DSPs who remain in roles by choice and newer hires who turnover quickly. Participants highlighted wage compression—where long‑serving staff see only marginal pay increases relative to new hires—and the broader problem that many families are "bereft" of networks to support planning. HSRI and advocates discussed the grassroots project and community outreach efforts as tools to bolster connections and advocacy capacity for families and local groups.