Advocate Aurora Health raises minimum wage to $18 per hour

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Advocate Aurora Health employees making minimum wage will see a boost in their paychecks this holiday season.

The health care system is increasing minimum wage to $18 per hour.

This is the fourth minimum wage increase in less than three years, according to Advocate Aurora Health.

The raise adds about $500 to paychecks pre-tax for full-time employees.

"It makes me feel more appreciated," Jessica Carver said.

Carver works with the environmental services team on the cancer floor at one of Advocate Aurora's hospitals.

"Just keeping everything clean and sanitized," Carver said. "Also, just being here for the patients, because that's what we're here for."

Carver is one of 10,800 employees to see the increase. Minimum wage was $15 before.

"I'm actually excited. When we heard the news, I was just overwhelmed," Carver said.

Carver told CBS 58 the extra money will help her give her family a new place to live.

"I'm about to be a first-time home buyer," Carver said. "It gives me more stability. So, I'm like yes, this is what we need."

An additional 20,000 employees who make more than minimum wage will also receive a raise.