Sonia, a nursing assistant, found herself in an unlawful situation and did not know where to turn. She worked long hours filled with the harsh physical and emotional demands of caring for the ill. She tended to the health and wellness of countless patients, provided a steady hand for those finding their strength after an injury, and acted as a calming presence for those facing a challenging diagnosis.
She did this for more than a year without a single vacation day because her employer would not allow her or her coworkers to use their earned vacation time. Her employer also refused to pay Sonia and her coworkers for their unused vacation time, meaning they were being cheated out of money they rightfully earned.
What Sonia’s employer was doing was illegal, but Sonia and her coworkers were without recourse because they could not afford an attorney.
That’s when VLP stepped in.
VLP provided Sonia with a pro bono attorney who sent a demand letter to her employer for the unpaid vacation time. Through diligent advocacy, her VLP attorney negotiated a settlement in Sonia’s favor. What’s more, her employer has amended its practices to be compliant with the law. Now all of Sonia’s coworkers are allowed to use their hard-earned vacation time!
VLP—along with its community of volunteers and supporters—is helping local Boston-area residents like Sonia every day. Thank you for your support.