Nursing home workers at Avante at Boca Raton have ratified a new contract. The three-year agreement includes noteworthy gains. Among them, pay raises totaling 9% worth of increases over the 3-year agreement, higher minimum wages, additional paid time off based on seniority and bonuses for everyone.

“It feels really good to have secured this agreement,” said Nadia Louis, a certified nursing assistant and member of the bargaining team. “I have three children to support so the extra money is sorely needed and appreciated.”

The wage increases are based on seniority and job classifications. The agreement also includes a one-time ratification bonus for all bargaining unit employees which includes dietary aides and porters, cooks, floor techs, maintenance assistants, laundry aides, housekeeping aides and CNAs.

The contract also has improved language concerning arbitrations which members say is a huge victory. And this deal includes no givebacks.

“The bargaining team did a great job,” said Louis. “We stayed unified and committed to reach our goals and I am proud of what we were able to accomplish together.”