EVERYTHING DDRU

We help TPS workers receive:
• A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• A timely filed Form I-797C Notice of Action showing an automatic extension.
• An official Federal Register notice extending work authorization for their specific country.
Act now and join the DDRU Union today. Let us help you obtain the legal paperwork you need to continue working legally in the United States.
DDRU is America's largest nursing union, specializing in protecting Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), home health aides, caregivers, and nursing students. We continuously fight for your rights, higher wages, back pay, and fair treatment while holding employers accountable for underpayment and wage violations. DDRU represents healthcare workers in every sector and works with employers of TPS workers to ensure the proper paperwork is filed to protect employees' legal work authorization and workplace rights.
DDRU Helps Members Obtain the Following Documentation
• Unexpired EAD Card: The primary proof of legal authorization to work.
• Form I-797C Notice of Action: A receipt confirming that a renewal application was filed on time, which may trigger an automatic extension of work authorization.
• Country-Specific Federal Register Notice: The official government publication confirming automatic work authorization extensions for designated TPS nationalities.
The Big Picture
• The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has moved to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia, Yemen, Burma (Myanmar), Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, Haiti, and Venezuela, with each termination announced through its own Federal Register notice.
• Federal courts temporarily intervened for most of these countries by issuing stays that kept work authorization in effect while litigation continued.
• The Supreme Court's decision in Mullin v. Doe held that Congress largely removed the courts' authority to second-guess DHS TPS decisions. As a result, the primary legal argument under the Administrative Procedure Act—that the terminations were arbitrary and capricious—was significantly weakened for Burma, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Yemen, and other affected countries.
• Some lower courts have not yet fully resolved the remaining cases. As a result, employment authorization documents (EADs) for several countries remain in legal uncertainty. Although TPS has technically been terminated for some groups, certain EADs may still be recognized because existing district court orders remain in effect.
• The uncertainty extends beyond these eight countries. On July 21, 2026, a federal court in Massachusetts temporarily blocked a separate USCIS policy related to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that would have shortened certain TPS holders' 540-day automatic work authorization extensions effective July 22, 2026. The case, Venezuelan Association of Massachusetts v. USCIS, primarily affects TPS holders from Ukraine, El Salvador, and Sudan.
DDRU Is Currently Accepting Member Cases
DDRU is currently assisting members from the following TPS-designated countries:
• Ethiopia
• Yemen
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Somalia
• South Sudan
• Syria
• Haiti
• Venezuela

The DDRU Nursing Union is actively recruiting lawyers and lobbying for legislation to ensure that Haitian workers with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in Florida can continue their crucial roles in long-term care facilities while they seek legal immigration rights. DDRU president Mr Bass stated ““ Our message unequivocally conveys that changes to the TPS policy could severely affect elder care in Florida. Approximately 35,000 healthcare workers in the state will be impacted if Haitian TPS holders lose their work authorization, with many of these individuals employed in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities that are already facing staffing shortages. The president of DDRU emphasized the importance of acknowledging the facts: there are an estimated 35,000 Haitian healthcare workers, including certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and home health aides (HHAs), residing and working in Florida under TPS. These dedicated healthcare professionals risk their lives to care for the elderly in Florida during the COVID-19 pandemic. They have demonstrated their resilience, pride, and dignity by performing jobs that many American registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and other educated nursing staff are unwilling to undertake. Is this how you choose to treat my people? My people sacrificed their lives to save your loved ones during COVID, and now you seem to have forgotten that? Mr. Bass, the president of DDRU, remarked. "Let us remember that our community stands in solidarity with all people of color, and this marks a new era. When collective bargaining is no longer an option, we will strike and advocate for legislative changes while pursuing class action lawsuits against those who discriminate against all people of color. We possess the data, the statistics, the videos, and the photographs. We have been consistently mistreated, yet we continue to work; however, this is a new day. We come in peace but demand respect. Losing our experienced caregivers will disrupt the quality of care for seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on us daily. We are the ones providing quality care for Florida's aging population.
DDRU kindly request that any individuals of color or those of Haitian descent contact us for assistance. Please visit our website at DDRU.org. You can also reach us via email at Admin@DDRU.org. For hearing requests, please call 1 (904) 689-4031.

DDRU.ORG

JULY, 20 2026
RP: BEATRICE PAULUS

I firmly believe that CNAs AND HHA’s could do anything they want to do. They are resourceful, passionate, and resilient. They are able to juggle numerous tasks at once and can pivot quickly from one thing to another. So I was pleased to talk with DDRU about the many career opportunities for CNAs and HHA’s in Florida, Examining Potential career Paths for this nursing union’s members. DDRU president Mr. Bass says $485 million was awarded to Florida school and colleges to help advance nurses education and careers through out the state by, Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) and the Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives for Nursing Education (PIPELINE) programs. LINE and PIPELINE funding, strengthens nursing programs across Florida by providing “ scholarships” to students, supporting the recruitment of additional faculty, funding the purchase of equipment and enhancing simulation centers.

Mr. Bass stated DDRU pushes their union members to pursue a career path to be an LPN or RN and their union helps their members in the process. However, he stated that there is a mistaken belief that all CNAs want to be nurses. This is absolutely not true. Mr. Bass has seen CNAs become administrators and become very successful. This is because they have much in common – they have a million things going on at once, they have to be able to communicate with a variety of audiences, and they have to be effective time managers. They also know their facilities and what goes on in many areas on a day-to-day basis. DDRU makes it possible for their members to work with their organization and help members sign up for free grants to continue their education. There is always scholarships or aid available, also different organizations, willing to provide tuition assistance in return for a commitment to stay with the company for a specific period of time.

 

The LINE program is a competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant that supports partnerships between participating educational institutions and health care providers. The LINE program provides scholarships for students who meet residency requirements for tuition purposes, supports the recruitment of additional faculty, funds the purchase of equipment and enhances simulation centers to advance high-quality nursing education. For more information about LINE and a list of FDOE’s awarded institutions, visit https://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/funding-opportunities/linefund/.



 PIPELINE program rewards performance and excellence among postsecondary nursing programs. PIPELINE provides funds based on the number of nursing education program completers, first-time National Council of State Board of Nursing Licensing Examination passage rates, and excellence among nursing education programs based on the average of first-time passage rates above the national average.

DDRU.ORG
JULY 18, 2026
RP: SEAN BARTOLOME

DDRU’S President Mr. Bass has celebrated Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida’s continued investment in high quality nursing programs with more than $485 million awarded through the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) and the Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives for Nursing Education (PIPELINE) programs since their inception. LINE and PIPELINE funding strengthen nursing programs across Florida by providing scholarships to students, supporting the recruitment of additional faculty, funding the purchase of equipment and enhancing simulation centers.

Mr Bass stated in a recent interview at a nurse leadership convention in Bonita florida,He wishes that more CNA,HHA, and NA”S take advantage of the benefits Governor DeSantis has awarded for all Floridians. Mr Bass stated over $20 million in LINE funding, $14.5 million to state colleges and private postsecondary institutions and $6 million to state universities are funds available for the nursing professionals his union represents. More than $85 million has been awarded through the LINE program, with $61.5 million to state colleges and private postsecondary institutions, and $24 million to State University System (SUS) institutions. In addition, the PIPELINE program has awarded $400 million, with $240 million to state colleges and school districts, and $160 million to SUS institutions.


“ Governor DeSantis has made nursing education a top priority in Florida, recognizing the critical role nurses play in keeping our communities healthy and safe,” Through strategic investments like the LINE and PIPELINE programs, we are supporting the next generation of nurses by expanding opportunity to high-quality education and ensuring Florida’s healthcare workforce is prepared to meet growing demand.” Florida’s continued investment in nursing education demonstrates our state’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce and expanding opportunities for individuals that want to further their education. Thus, we have to take advantage of these opportunities. DDRU fights for your rights, however you all must fight for yourselves to further your education. “ Mr bass stated to his union members.
DDRU is America's largest Nursing Union that Specialize in protecting  CNA's,  Home health Aids, and Care givers, continuously fighting for job benefits and higher wages, holding facilities accountable for under pay.

The LINE program is a competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant that supports partnerships between participating educational institutions and health care providers. The LINE program provides scholarships for students who meet residency requirements for tuition purposes, supports the recruitment of additional faculty, funds the purchase of equipment and enhances simulation centers to advance high-quality nursing education. For more information about LINE and a list of FDOE’s awarded institutions, visit https://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/funding-opportunities/linefund/.

The PIPELINE program rewards performance and excellence among postsecondary nursing programs. PIPELINE provides funds based on the number of nursing education program completers, first-time National Council of State Board of Nursing Licensing Examination passage rates, and excellence among nursing education programs based on the average of first-time passage rates above the national average.

DDRU.ORG
JULY 17 2026
RP: SEAN BARTOLOME

Coming off a significant victory for unionized nurses in South Florida, following the successful ratification of a new three-year contract in January 2026, DDRU of America Nursing Union is now advocating for legislation that would support and establish higher wages and improved benefits for Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Home Health Aides (HHAs), and Nursing Assistants (NAs) throughout the State of Florida.
The recent agreement resulted in more than 1,000 unionized nurses at Palmetto General Hospital (Hialeah), Coral Gables Hospital (Coral Gables), and Florida Medical Center (Lauderdale Lakes) receiving guaranteed salary increases and improved staffing standards.
Prior to reaching the agreement, nurses held multiple rallies throughout late 2025 to protest what they described as dangerously low staffing levels and to demand stronger patient safety protections. Although a one-day strike had been scheduled for January 9, 2026, it was called off after a tentative agreement was reached with the hospital operator, Healthcare Systems of America.
The newly ratified collective bargaining agreements are effective from January 13, 2026, through January 13, 2029.
Building on this momentum, DDRU of America Nursing Union is committed to advocating for similar progress on behalf of Florida's Certified Nursing Assistants, Home Health Aides, and Nursing Assistants by supporting legislative initiatives that promote fair compensation, stronger workplace protections, and improved employee benefits for these essential frontline healthcare professionals.
DDRU of America President and Chief Executive Officer David Allen Bass Sr. stated,"This is only the beginning of meaningful victories for Florida's healthcare professionals. For far too long, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Home Health Aides (HHAs), and Nursing Assistants (NAs) have been overlooked in conversations about healthcare reform, workforce development, wages, and employee benefits. That must change."
Mr. Bass reaffirmed DDRU of America's commitment to ensuring that frontline healthcare support professionals have a strong voice in shaping the future of healthcare across Florida.
"DDRU of America is committed to making sure CNAs, HHAs, and Nursing Assistants are no longer left out of the conversation. These dedicated professionals deserve recognition, respect, competitive wages, quality benefits, and meaningful opportunities for career advancement. We will continue advocating tirelessly until their value is fully recognized."
Reflecting on the sacrifices made by frontline caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, Mr. Bass added:
"Let us never forget that it was Certified Nursing Assistants, Home Health Aides, and Nursing Assistants who stood on the front lines every single day in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, private residences, rehabilitation centers, and hospice care settings. They cared for our parents, grandparents, veterans, neighbors, and loved ones during one of the most difficult periods in modern history. Many risked their own health and, tragically, some lost their lives while faithfully serving others."
Mr. Bass emphasized that appreciation alone is no longer enough.
"A simple 'thank you' is no longer sufficient. The State of Florida has an opportunity to demonstrate its gratitude through meaningful action—by supporting policies that improve wages, strengthen benefits, expand career opportunities, and recognize the essential role these professionals play in our healthcare system. Frontline caregivers have earned that recognition through their unwavering dedication, compassion, and sacrifice."
He concluded by reaffirming DDRU of America's mission:
"Every healthcare professional deserves dignity, respect, and a voice. At DDRU of America, we will continue advocating for policies that strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve the lives of the caregivers who dedicate themselves to caring for others. Their work is invaluable, and their contributions deserve lasting recognition."

DDRU.ORG AFFILIATE

JULY 6 2026

In the realm of healthcare, the principle of equity (the quality of being fair and impartial) is paramount. Every patient deserves compassionate, comprehensive, and unbiased care, regardless of their size, shape, or medical history. However, the reality is that biases (prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way considered to be unfair), whether conscious or unconscious, can and do significantly affect how healthcare caregivers interact with bariatric patients. Understanding these biases and addressing them is crucial for improving patient outcomes and fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment.

The Reality of Bariatric Care

Bariatric patients, or individuals who are classified as obese, often face unique medical challenges that require specialized care. These patients may be seeking treatment for obesity related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, joint pain, or may be pursuing weight loss surgery. Unfortunately, bariatric patients frequently encounter stigma and discrimination in all healthcare settings, which can lead to negative healthcare experiences and outcomes because of how they are made to feel by those who are supposed to be caring for them.

Studies have shown that healthcare workers may hold biases against bariatric patients by viewing them through a lens of judgement rather than compassion. These biases can manifest in several ways:

• Assumption About their Lifestyle Choices:

Healthcare providers may assume bariatric patients are lazy or lack willpower, leading to lack of empathy and understanding. This can result in inadequate patient education and support.

• Lack of Attention to Medical Needs:

Some healthcare workers may focus solely on the patient’s weight rather than considering the full scope of their health. This can lead to misdiagnosis or overlooked conditions that may require attention.

• Communication Barriers:

Patients may feel judged or dismissed, leading to poor communication and a reluctance to seek care. This can create a harmful cycle where patients avoid healthcare settings out of fear of stigmatization.

• Inadequate Facilities:

Many medical facilities are not equipped to accommodate larger patients including waiting room seating, examination tables, beds, testing equipment, such as CT scans or MRI machines, shower equipment, wheelchairs, walkers, and bedside commodes.

Addressing Biases in Bariatric Care

One of the most effective ways to combat bias is through education. Healthcare workers and providers should receive training that focuses on understanding obesity as a complex, multifaceted condition influenced by genetics, environment, and psychology. This can help shift the narrative from blame to understanding.

Encouraging healthcare workers to practice empathy can transform patient interactions, which can build rapport and understanding of a patient’s unique circumstances and can foster a more supportive environment, leading to the best treatment outcomes.

Patients should also feel empowered to voice their concerns and experiences. Encouraging open dialogue with the patient can create a culture of experiences that are better tailored to their care and individual needs.

The Path Forward

As healthcare professionals, we should move towards a more equitable healthcare system, it is imperative that we confront the biases that affect bariatric patients. If we foster a culture of understanding, empathy and inclusivity, we can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes for individuals living with obesity.

Recognizing and addressing bias in healthcare is not just a professional obligation, it is a moral imperative. By committing to change, healthcare professionals can help ensure that every patient, regardless of size, receives the compassionate care and respect they deserve. Together, we can pave the way for a healthier, more equitable future in healthcare.

 

1. Safeguard Your Client’s Confidentiality

As an HHA you will be privy to a lot of sensitive, private information about your client. Please be aware that your client’s health information is protected by law. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is a federal law that protects sensitive patient health information from being disclosed without the patient's consent or knowledge. 

This means that you must NOT discuss clients with your friends, neighbors, or relatives or even in a public space where your conversation can be overheard.

Violation of HIPAA will not only jeopardize your employment but can set the stage for legal action to be taken against you. 

 

2. Get Familiar with the Plan of Care

The Plan of Care, which is created by the nurse assigned to your client, holds all the specifics of your client’s medical needs. It is important that you can locate and understand the plan when you arrive at your client’s home. 

If you cannot locate the Plan of Care or have trouble understanding it, reach out to your coordinator and the nurse assigned to your client. They are more than willing to assist you in overcoming any challenges you may have in this area. 

 

 3. Stay In Touch 

True Care HHAs are never without the full support of their coordinator, the assigned nurse, and handbooks that detail the ‘dos and don’ts’ of the job.

In addition to regular classes that aides can use to brush up on their knowledge, True Care HHAs can reach out to the nurse assigned to their client for a refresher on any specific task. 

For example, if your client needs a Hoyer lift to assist with transfer, you can ask the assigned True Care nurse to retrain you on how to use it safely. It is always recommended to reach out when faced with challenges than to go it alone as your client’s safety and wellbeing may be in the balance. 

 

4. Carry Your First Day Essentials

Your first day as an HHA can feel like a challenge, but there are some things you can do to face the day as prepared as possible.

Make sure you have the client’s name, address, and phone number clearly written down. Get the directions and plan your route to the location beforehand so you can take the quickest and safest route. 

Arm yourself with a clean set of scrubs, two comfortable shoes – one to be worn outside and one inside the home, True Care’s office number and know the contact for the coordinator who assigned you to the client.

Also, make sure that you have downloaded the HHA Exchange App to your phone. You will have to clock in and clock out using the App and this is the main way of tracking your work hours.

 

5. Read Your HHA Handbook

True Care’s HHA Handbook, which is sent to every onboarded HHA, is an HHA’s greatest asset and playbook. The Handbook outlines the tasks you will be expected to perform as an HHA, the tasks you should not be performing, details on confidentiality, and what to do in times of crisis. 

The HHA Handbook is a key component in successfully executing your duties and can ensure you are not in violation of the regulations of home care. 

The handbook is a digital publication, so you can reference it quickly from your mobile device while you’re on the go. 

 

6. Be Compassionate 

Keep in mind that while you are new to home care, your client is also going through their own emotional and health journey. It is never easy to give up your independence and many clients find it difficult to come to terms with the fact that they will rely on you for simple and sometimes very personal tasks.

With that in mind, it’s important to allow your client to maintain as much independence as is safely possible. As part of your role as a companion, engaging him or her in conversations can bring a level of familiarity that will make the adjustment period that much easier. 

 

7. Take Care of Yourself

As a home health aide, you are physically, mentally, and emotionally engaged while on your shift and sometimes beyond that time frame. You will have to take especially good care of yourself.

Self-care and taking care of your own needs should never be low on your list of priorities. 

You need adequate sleep, good nutrition, and time to enjoy hobbies and friends. All of this will help to keep your stress levels in check and your energy up, which translates into better care for your client. 

We hope you found these tips helpful. And good luck on your home care journey!

 

Florida Home Health Aides (HHAs) can access free advancement and continuing education (CEU) courses through several platforms and workforce partnerships. Options range from free basic caregiver certifications [myCNAjobs] and specialized [CEUfast], to larger, Medicare-approved in-service bundles and state-funded programs [HomeCareLearn]. 

Top free or low-cost educational resources to advance your HHA career in Florida:

 

• myCNAjobs Free Caregiver Training Center: Offers free, mobile-friendly courses and specialty certificates (e.g., Dementia or Alzheimer's care) that you can print out and bring to job interviews to boost your resume [myCNAjobs]. 

• CEUfast: Provides free, nationally accredited, self-paced continuing education courses that focus on personal care, mobility, and nutritional support [CEUfast].

• Home Care Association of Florida (HCAF): If your employer is an HCAF member, you can utilize the HomeCareLearn.com on-demand portal to access many free continuing education units (CEUs) that are automatically reported to CE Broker [Home Care Association of Florida]. 

• Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) Partners: Organizations such as Care Options for Kids offer free training and advancement pathways, particularly for HHAs who want to transition into pediatric or medically fragile care [Care Options for Kids]. 

 

 

DDRU member's we're thrilled to welcome you to the “9th Edition of Nursing World Conference” (NWC 2025), scheduled to take place in the Orlando, Florida, USA. This landmark event, themed “Nursing Beyond Borders: Global Perspectives and Practices”, will offer a hybrid experience, combining In-person and Virtual participation for a global reach.

DDRU is proud to represent our ambitious CNA's NHA nurses union  at this event and will be helping  you network to advance in your professional health care career. NWC 2025 is a premier platform for leading figures in nursing, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policy makers to connect, share insights, and drive forward the nursing field. It promises to be a vibrant hub for exploring the latest developments and innovations in nursing practice, teaching young nurses in the industry.

The conference will feature an extensive range of topics, including Certified Nursing Informatics, Home Health Aide Nursing, and Mental Health Nursing. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in Clinical Nursing, Cardiac Care, Oncology, and Pediatric Care. Key discussions will also cover the roles of nurses in disease control, responses to global health emergencies like COVID-19, and the progress of Evidence-Based Nursing. The event will highlight emerging practices in Holistic and Rehabilitation Nursing, as well as Occupational Health.

Attendees will benefit from engaging presentations, the opportunity to share their cutting-edge research, and interactive sessions designed to address current challenges in the field. Whether you’re an experienced nurse or new to the profession, NWC 2025 will offer valuable sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.

They look forward to your participation in NWC 2025, where we will collectively advance the future of nursing. Join them in the USA or online for this impactful event.