Writing a letter to the editor of the local newspaper is an excellent way to reach people in your community, and to build support for your efforts among your friends and neighbors.

A letter to the editor of a newspaper is an important tool for communicating on a local level, raising important issues that may have been overlooked in media coverage of a story, or raising the profile of the writer and his/her organization in the community. 

Many people are not aware of home care workers or what they do.  Since your wages are set by elected officials (see County Board of Supervisors) it is very important that you have public visibility and support.  Your community needs to know that homecare workers are contributors to the well-being of its members, and the local economy. (Spending money locally, and bringing in federal and state dollars.)

How to Write a Letter to the Editor

Letters to the editor should be focused and should generally not exceed 200 words.  They may be edited for length by newspaper staff.

• Call the newspaper for submission guidelines and follow them.  Do not exceed the maximum word count or ignore the stated rules.
• Read other letters that have been printed in the publication to get an idea of what kind of writing is most likely to get accepted.
• Don't assume your readers already know about your efforts or who you are.  use the first paragraph of the letter to give a brief recap on what you want, and why you want it.
• Write your piece as objectively and rationally as possible.  As an advocate for home care workers or clients, feel free to write from personal experience once you have established the major points of your letter.
• Take issue, but never take a "cheap shot" at those who disagree with your point of view.
• Use creative and vigorous language to get your point across.
• Type your letter.  Check for grammar and spelling.  Editors see many letters each day.  They are much more likely to read and use those that are concise and legible.

You can also get your letter published on this website.
Go to our Opinions & Letters Page to see letters that were publishd, and the stories of other workers and clients.

If your county is in negotiations, it is also a good idea to write your County Board of Supervisors.