For the hundreds of thousands of families with children hospitalized each year, facing employment discrimination or difficulty accessing leave can be devastating. WorkLife Law is proud to launch a new initiative to provide critical legal support to safeguard these families in their time of need. We are joining forces with the Unbuckled Foundation, a Vermont-based organization founded by parents to empower caregivers of children with long-term illness or disability. By combining Unbuckled’s deep community connections and knowledge with WorkLife Law’s employment law expertise, this partnership creates a comprehensive support system for vulnerable families.
As a result of this partnership, families of children getting care at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital will now receive information about workplace accommodations, family and medical leave rights, and protection from caregiver discrimination. As complex situations arise, WorkLife Law attorneys will be available to provide specialized assistance to caregivers.
“When a child is seriously ill, parents shouldn’t have to choose between being present for their child’s care and maintaining their financial security,” says Jessica Lee, Co-Director of WorkLife Law. “This partnership with Unbuckled brings vital legal resources directly to families, empowering caregivers to understand and exercise their workplace rights while focusing on their children’s health.”
Unbuckled Co-Founder, Becca Newton, with son Averil
Becca Newton co-founded Unbuckled with her husband Blain after she was terminated from her job just weeks after her three-year-old son was diagnosed with leukemia. Now, Unbuckled empowers caregivers of children with long-term illnesses or disabilities by connecting them with essential legal and financial resources.
“As a mother and executive who lost my job when my son was diagnosed with cancer, I understand firsthand the immense challenges of balancing work, life, and caregiving,” says Newton. “By easing these burdens, we help families focus on what truly matters—caring for their children.”
Learn more about Unbuckled and this new partnership, here.