Meaningful Day Program Updates
Dear Adult Family Home Providers,
I want to take a moment to share where things stand on the Meaningful Day Program (MDP) and how the Adult Family Home Council is responding. As of right now, the MDP is set to end July 1, 2025 for all participants.
We know this is devasting and heartbreaking. Many of you have built your homes and care plans around this program. You have every right to feel frustrated, angry, and deeply disappointed—not just by the decision itself, but by how unclear and confusing this process has been. I know how deeply this issue affects you. And we are committed to providing as much information as possible and answering your questions.
The state eliminated MDP from our collective bargaining agreement (CBA), in a way that we believe violates our contract and applicable statues. The moment we confirmed the program had been cut, we contacted our attorney and immediately began working on a legal and strategic response.
Please know we are not standing by. We are actively challenging this decision.
What We're Doing:
- As soon as DSHS notified us of the contract termination, we immediately filed two demands to bargain. The first addresses the economic impact of eliminating the program; the second challenges the state’s failure to fully fund the CBA, which we negotiated with in good faith.
- We have requested to return to the bargaining table for negotiations, and we are currently working to secure a mediator to start this month. Once mediation dates are confirmed, we will participate fully and urgently—with the goal of reaching a resolution before July 1, 2025.
- If negotiations fail to produce a resolution, we will consult with our legal team on the next steps.
The Board of Directors has shown unwavering leadership on this issue. They have empowered the Council with full authority to take all necessary action to defend the integrity of our contract and to protect the services our residents and members rely on. Their commitment and courage during this time have been essential, and I want to publicly thank them for standing firm and standing strong.
This fight will be expensive. Both the demands to bargain and any actions that may follow, come with significant costs. That’s why your membership with the Council matters now more than ever. Together, we must grow our strength and protect our collective bargaining rights.
We will continue to keep our members informed with timely updates as this matter progresses. For the most reliable information, please visit our AFH News page or subscribe to our email list. Any guidance not shared through our official channels is not authorized or endorsed by the Council.
We remain committed to representing you and protecting your interests. If you have questions or need information, please visit our Contact page.
Thank you, truly, for standing with us. For your membership, your commitment to your residents, and your continued engagement.
We’re Fighting for you every day!
Hope C. Reffett
Interim Executive Director
Not a Member Yet?
Membership fees enable the Council to cover legal expenses and fund staff to advocate with the state and regulatory agencies. The participation of every adult family home is vital to ensuring fair regulations and rates that accurately reflect the costs of caring for our vulnerable adults. Consider becoming a member of the Council to help us continue improving conditions for all adult family homes in Washington State.